What are the best practices for designing and implementing a hearing conservation program for your industry?

1 Noise Assessment

The first step of an HCP is to conduct a noise assessment to measure and map the noise levels in the workplace, and to identify the workers who are exposed to noise above the action level of 85 decibels (dBA) over an eight-hour period. The noise assessment should use calibrated instruments and follow the standards and guidelines of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or other relevant authorities. The noise assessment should also be repeated periodically or whenever there are changes in the work environment, equipment, or processes that may affect the noise exposure.

2 Noise Control

The second step of an HCP is to implement noise control measures to eliminate or reduce the noise sources or the noise transmission paths. Noise control can be achieved by engineering, administrative, or personal protective methods, or a combination of them. Engineering methods involve modifying or replacing the noisy equipment or machinery, installing noise barriers or enclosures, or applying sound-absorbing materials. Administrative methods involve changing the work schedules, tasks, or locations of the workers to limit their exposure time or distance to the noise sources. Personal protective methods involve providing and requiring the use of hearing protection devices (HPDs) such as earplugs or earmuffs for the workers who are exposed to noise above the permissible exposure limit of 90 dBA over an eight-hour period.

3 Hearing Protection

The third step of an HCP is to select, provide, and maintain appropriate HPDs for the workers who need them. HPDs should be chosen based on the noise levels, the frequency and duration of exposure, the comfort and fit of the devices, and the compatibility with other personal protective equipment. HPDs should also have a noise reduction rating (NRR) that indicates how much they can attenuate the noise. HPDs should be inspected regularly for wear and tear, and replaced or repaired as needed. HPDs should also be cleaned and stored properly to prevent contamination or damage.

4 Hearing Training

The fourth step of an HCP is to educate and train the workers and supervisors on the hazards and effects of noise, the benefits and limitations of HPDs, the proper use and care of HPDs, and the requirements and procedures of the HCP. Hearing training should be conducted at least annually or whenever there are changes in the HCP or the noise conditions. Hearing training should also be interactive and engaging, using various methods such as videos, demonstrations, quizzes, or feedback. Hearing training should also be evaluated for its effectiveness and improvement.

5 Hearing Testing

The fifth step of an HCP is to conduct audiometric testing for the workers who are exposed to noise above the action level of 85 dBA over an eight-hour period. Audiometric testing is a hearing test that measures the hearing threshold of the workers using an audiometer, a device that produces different tones at different frequencies and intensities. Audiometric testing should be performed by a qualified professional, such as an audiologist or a physician, or by a trained technician under their supervision. Audiometric testing should be done at least annually or more frequently if indicated by the results. Audiometric testing should also follow the OSHA or other relevant standards and protocols.

6 Hearing Recordkeeping

The sixth step of an HCP is to keep accurate and complete records of the noise assessment, noise control, hearing protection, hearing training, and audiometric testing data. Hearing records should be maintained for at least the duration of the workers' employment, or longer if required by law or regulation. Hearing records should also be accessible and confidential, and only shared with the workers, their representatives, or authorized persons. Hearing records should also be used to evaluate and improve the HCP, and to identify and prevent any cases of occupational hearing loss.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?