NIHL
Noise induced hearing loss
NIHL caused by occupational exposure has been a compensate occupational disease since…
The 1950s
NIHL has been identified as…
- Second most self reported occupational illness or injury
Estimated number of workers exposed to hazardous noise levels
30 million
Key industries with high numbers of workers exposed to hazardous noise
Noise exposure has been associated with the following:
Hearing loss programs are designed to do the following:
OSHA noise standard
CFR 1910.95
OSHA regulations limit work site noise exposure to….
90 dBA time weighted average (TWA) over an 8 hour shift
Mandatory components of OSHA Noise Standard
Hearing loss prevention programs are mandatory in an environment where….
Daily noise level equals or exceeds 85dBA over an 8 hour time weighted average
Hearing conservation recommendations based on TWA in dBA
84 or below
Workers included in HCP: no
HPD utilization: voluntary
HPD selection options: free choice
Hearing conservation recommendations based on TWA in dBA
85-89
Workers included in HCP: yes
HPD utilization: optional
HPD selection options: free choice
Hearing conservation recommendations based on TWA in dBA
90-94
Workers included in HCP: yes
HPD utilization: required
HPD selection options: free choice
Hearing conservation recommendations based on TWA in dBA
95-99
Workers included in HCP: yes
HPD utilization: required
HPD selection options: limited choice
Hearing conservation recommendations based on TWA in dBA
100 or above
Workers included in HCP: yes
HPD utilization: required
HPD selection options: very limited choice
Rationale for and benefits of a worksite HLPP
Hearing loss prevention programs can benefit
2. Employees
How can prevention, early detection and reducing noise hazard benefit employees?
2. Improve workplace morale
How can prevention, early detection and reducing noise hazards benefit management
An effective hearing loss prevention program requires the following:
Resource for recommendations for compliance with OSHA standard
NIOSH Practical Guide to Preventing Hearing Loss
Specifically appendix A- OSHA Standard Compliance Checklist
Management roles related to Hearing Loss Prevention Programs
Component of HLPP policy that must be implemented
Disciplinary action for noncompliance