About 25% of U.S. workers are exposed to dangerous noise, and 34% don’t use hearing protection. Long-term exposure to loud noise can cause serious hearing loss.

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) can often be prevented with a good Hearing Conservation Program (HCP). It’s vital to protect employees' hearing in noisy workplaces, and following OSHA’s hearing test requirements is essential for this.

Overview of OSHA Hearing Conservation Program

OSHA's Hearing Conservation Program (HCP) is designed to protect workers from the harmful effects of noise exposure. The program mandates that employees working in loud noise undergo regular hearing tests.

Employers must establish an HCP when workers are exposed to an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) of 85 dB(A). The program's main components include noise monitoring, audiometric testing, hearing protection, employee training, and record-keeping.

Noise Monitoring

Before starting an HCP, checking noise levels to identify at-risk employees is critical. Noise monitoring measures if employees are exposed to 85 decibels (dB) or more over an 8-hour workday.

Employers must measure noise levels during regular work activities and can choose the best monitoring method for their needs. OSHA mandates monitoring all noise levels from 80 to 130 dB, including constant, intermittent, and sudden noises. OSHA requires remeasuring noise levels whenever production, equipment, or control changes might increase them.

Sound level meters are used to measure noise in the workplace, ensuring they comply with safety regulations to protect workers' hearing.

Hearing Testing Requirements

According to OSHA standards, audiometric tests must be:

• Pure tone, air conduction, and hearing threshold exams.
• Test at a minimum of 500, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, and 6000 Hz binaurally.
  

Who Can Perform Occupational Hearing Testing?

A licensed audiologist, otolaryngologist, physician, or certified technician may conduct occupational hearing tests. If a technician is testing, they must be competent in administering hearing tests, obtaining valid results, and maintaining hearing test machines called audiometers. All technicians must work under the supervision of an audiologist, otolaryngologist, or physician.

OSHA strongly advises that technicians conducting occupational hearing tests within an HCP obtain certification from the Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation (CAOHC).

e3 Diagnostics offers a 3-day course that meets CAOHC requirements. This course qualifies participants for CAOHC certification as a Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (COHC).

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Baseline Audiogram

An audiogram is a graph that shows a person's hearing ability across different frequencies. A hearing conservation program’s baseline audiogram is extremely important as it serves as the reference for future hearing tests. Employers must provide a baseline audiogram within 6 months of an employee’s first exposure to noise at or above 85 dB TWA.

If using a mobile test van, the deadline extends to one year. If exposed to noise 85 dB TWA or above, employees must wear hearing protection devices for the six months preceding baseline testing.
As per OSHA requirements, employees should avoid noise exposure or wear hearing protection for 14 hours before the baseline test.

Annual Audiogram

As per OSHA requirements, employers must conduct annual audiograms on employees within one year of the baseline to spot early hearing loss. Comparing these tests helps detect hearing changes or Standard Threshold Shifts (STSs), allowing for timely protective measures.

A Standard Threshold Shift (STS) is a 10 dB or more average change at 2,000, 3,000, and 4,000 Hz in either ear. If an STS is found, a retest should be done within 30 days, and the employee must be notified in writing within 21 days if the shift is confirmed.

An audiogram is a chart that displays a person's hearing sensitivity across different frequencies, helping to identify and document hearing loss.

Hearing Protection

When employees are exposed to noise levels at or above the action level (85 dB TWA), employers must provide appropriate hearing protection devices (HPDs).

Employees should be given a variety of HPDs to choose from, ensuring a comfortable and effective fit. Employers must also train employees on the proper use and care for hearing protectors.

Employee Training and Education

Annual training is required for employees exposed to noise at or above the action level. The training should cover the effects of noise on hearing, the purpose of audiometric testing, the proper use and care of hearing protectors, and the significance of STS detection.

Record-Keeping

Employers must maintain accurate noise exposure measurements and audiometric test results records. These records should be kept for at least two years for noise exposure data and the duration of employment for audiometric test records. Employees and their representatives have the right to access these records.

Best Practices for Occupational Hearing Testing

• Complete a valid baseline audiogram within six months of employment.
• Conduct annual hearing tests to monitor changes in hearing.
• Conduct tests in a controlled environment to minimize background noise and other distractions.
• Explain the testing process to employees clearly. Emphasize the importance of the test and explain how to use HPDs properly.
• If an STS is noted, retest quickly and provide affected employees with proper hearing protection and counseling.
• Regularly calibrate audiometric testing equipment to ensure accurate and reliable results.
• Keep up to date with OSHA regulations and guidelines to ensure compliance and the best possible care for employees.
  

By understanding and implementing OSHA hearing test requirements, occupational hearing testing plays a vital role in protecting workers' hearing health and ensuring a safer work environment.

Important note: This blog serves as a quick guide on this topic. For complete OSHA requirements, please visit osha.gov.

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