Noise/Hearing Loss Prevention

•  Identify and select the correct criteria for assessing noise exposure
•  Review historical exposure information (if available) to develop a sampling strategy
• Select the most appropriate equipment for sampling
• Use the equipment correctly to collect the appropriate types of data
• Interpret the results of the noise sampling to identify areas, employees or processes associated with excessive noise exposure
• Determine if supplemental sampling (such as octave band sampling) needs to take place to identify specific noise sources
• Store all exposure data in a way that can be easily accessed and analyzed by authorized personnel in the future
• Work with management, vendors or consultants to determine if it is possible or feasible to implement engineering controls to control noise exposure
• Train (and retrain) workers on when and how to use the proper personal protection equipment
• Promptly report any standard threshold shifts
• Communicate the results of noise monitoring and audiometric testing to all relevant parties (management, unions and/or workers)
• Work effectively and honestly with other stakeholders to achieve the stated goals of the hearing conservation program
• Review exposure data and reassess exposure periodically or when work patterns change
• Educate workers on the hazards of excessive noise exposure both inside and outside the workplace
• Conduct audiometric testing in compliance with all applicable regulations and retain the records for future review