Hearing Conservation Ann Grevenkamp FECA Committee Meeting August 23 rd, 2012

OSHA Standard 29CFR Whenever employee noise exposures equal or exceed an 8-hour time-weighted average sound level (TWA) of 85 decibels measured on the A scale (slow response) the employer shall administer a continuing, effective hearing conservation program.

What does this mean? Monitoring Audiometric testing program –Baseline audiogram-within 6 months of an employee's first exposure at or above the action level –Annual audiogram-At least annually after obtaining the baseline audiogram, the employer shall obtain a new audiogram for each employee exposed at or above an 8- hour time-weighted average of 85 dBA

Hearing Protectors Employers shall make hearing protectors available to all employees exposed to an 8-hour time-weighted average of 85 decibels or greater at no cost to the employees. Hearing protectors shall be replaced as necessary.

Hearing Protection shall be worn when: Employees exceed what is listed in table G-16 of the standard and By any employee who is exposed to 85 dba or greater for an 8 hr TWA and Has not yet had a baseline audiogram Or has experienced an STS

Employees shall be given the opportunity to select their hearing protectors from a variety of suitable hearing protectors provided by the employer. Provide training Supervise the use and ensure the proper fit of the hearing protectors

Fit Testing NOT a requirement of the standard nor an appendix Several available- –Howard Leight VeriPRO –3M E-A-Rfit –INTEGRAfit Determines the PAR (Personal Attenuation Rating)

Training The employer shall train each employee who is exposed to noise at or above an 8- hour time weighted average of 85 dBA The training program shall be repeated annually for each employee included in the hearing conservation program. Information provided in the training program shall be updated to be consistent with changes in protective equipment and work processes.

Training The effects of noise on hearing; The purpose of hearing protectors, the advantages, disadvantages, and attenuation of various types, and instructions on selection, fitting, use, and care The purpose of audiometric testing, and an explanation of the test procedures