Hearing Conservation in the Workplace: A Sound Approach

One of the most common types of hearing loss is occupational noise-induced hearing loss. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 22 million workers are exposed to potentially damaging noise yearly.

The most affected industries include manufacturing, oil and gas, agriculture and forestry, transportation, construction, and mining.

Hearing impairment can lead to quality-of-life issues and lower life expectancy. Those who have hearing loss often develop both physical and mental health problems, especially later in life.

OSHA requires employers to implement a hearing conservation program when noise exposure is at or above 85 decibels averaged over eight working hours or an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA).

The good news is that work-related hearing loss is preventable. By implementing an effective hearing conservation program, employers can minimize employee noise exposure and empower their workers with the knowledge and equipment to protect themselves from the dangers of excessive noise exposure.

This article will explain the importance of occupational hearing conservation programs and outline a sound approach to implementing them.

Breakdown

• Measuring Noise Levels
• Engineering and Administrative Controls
• Providing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Employee Hearing Evaluations
• Conclusion

Measuring Noise Levels

The first phase of a hearing conservation program involves conducting a comprehensive noise assessment. Sound level meters are used to measure specific locations, and calibrated noise dosimeters are used to determine particular employees’ personal noise exposure levels over time.

The goal is to quantify the extent of noise exposure and determine whether it exceeds acceptable levels. Essentially, to pinpoint any problem areas to address in the subsequent phases of this hearing conservation plan. Once the noise risks have been discovered, employers can focus on solutions that protect from noise on multiple fronts.

Engineering and Administrative Controls

Engineering controls involve modifying or replacing equipment that is producing hazardous noise levels. There are various ways to change equipment to reduce loud noises, such as by installing dampening materials or noise-reducing enclosures around noisy machinery. Some machines can also be equipped with quieter exhaust systems.

Administrative controls can adjust workplace protocols to minimize employees ‘ exposure to noise. These often involve increasing the distance between workers and noise risks or reducing the time workers are exposed to loud noises. Employers can even schedule tasks, especially noisy ones, during specific hours to limit employees’ time in noisy environments and create designated quiet zones.

Providing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Equipping employees with personal protective equipment (PPE) prevents hazardous noise exposure. Hearing protection devices can include ear plugs and protective earmuffs. Employees in noisy call centers can be provided with noise-canceling headphones. 

As crucial as ensuring employees have PPE is ensuring they fit correctly and are appropriately worn at all times. Ill-fitting hearing protection may not provide the necessary protection from excessive noise exposure. Hearing protectors that don’t work well are also more likely to be uncomfortable, often leading to workers deciding not to wear them.

Employers should train all employees on the proper use and fit of all PPE. They should have protective devices of various sizes to fit all body types and sizes. It’s also essential to routinely inspect for proper usage and correct anyone wearing their PPE incorrectly.

Employee Hearing Evaluations

Regular hearing evaluations are another vital aspect of occupational hearing conservation programs. These audiometric tests can assess employees’ hearing over time, which helps detect changes that may indicate early signs of hearing loss.

Research has shown that early detection and intervention for hearing loss are crucial for successful treatment. Catching noise-induced hearing loss early can significantly reduce the severity of mental health conditions related to hearing impairment, including dementia later in life.

Conclusion

Thanks to breakthroughs in studying sound levels on the human ear and good level meters, there are now reliable ways to measure noise to determine safe levels. Doctors and hearing experts have learned how to treat noise-induced hearing loss and help prevent it in the future. Audiometric testing can detect both temporary and permanent hearing loss early. We have the tools to protect workers in industries with a high risk of noise-induced hearing loss.

Meanwhile, the CDC has provided a solid blueprint for success in the effort to minimize or eliminate occupational hearing loss:

Measure for unsafe sound levels. Address hazardous noise sources. Make protocol adjustments. Provide employees with protective equipment and training. Schedule regular audiometric testing. By doing all this, employers can help reduce noise-induced hearing loss and promote hearing health in the workplace.

Eliminating occupational noise exposures will also help prevent future mental health problems associated with hearing loss and protect the quality of life for workers.

To explore the significance of hearing conservation in occupational settings, visit Hearing Associates of Las Vegas. They will help shed light on workplace-related hearing issues and provide guidance on implementing effective measures to safeguard the auditory health of employees.