Hearing Conservation Program (HCP)
As mentioned earlier, your workplace must implement a hearing conservation program if employees are exposed to noise levels equal to or greater than 85 dBA averaged over an eight-hour period. Check out Course 751 Hearing Conservation Program Management for more in-depth information regarding hearing conservation.
Key components in the HCP include the following:
- Exposure Monitoring: Employers must measure noise levels in the workplace to find out which areas and tasks expose workers to high levels of noise. This helps identify who needs to be included in the hearing conservation program. Regular monitoring also helps detect any changes in noise levels over time.
- Audiometric Testing: Workers who are exposed to loud noise must receive hearing tests, also known as audiometric testing. These tests check for early signs of hearing loss. A baseline test is done when the worker first starts the job, and follow-up tests are done each year to compare results.
- Hearing Protector Use: If noise levels cannot be reduced by other methods, workers must wear hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs. Employers must provide these protectors at no cost and make sure workers know how to use and take care of them properly.
- Employee Training: Workers must receive training on the dangers of noise exposure, how to protect their hearing, and how to use hearing protectors correctly. This training must be repeated every year to keep workers informed and aware.
- Access to Information: Employees must have access to the results of noise monitoring, details of the hearing conservation program, and educational materials. Workers also have the right to see their own audiometric test results.
Click here for a sample Hearing Conservation Program.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
7-6. Why is regular exposure monitoring important in a Hearing Conservation Program?
You forgot to answer the question!