OSHA regulations describe the need for a continuing, effective hearing conservation program for the workplace. The standard requires monitoring of noise levels, notifying employees of monitoring results, and allowing employees or their representatives to observe noise measurements. The requirements of the audiometric testing program are described in detail. The requirement for hearing protection to control employee noise exposure is discussed. The mandates for training and recordkeeping are enumerated.
The requirement for hearing protection to control employee noise exposure seems simple, but whether the hearing protection is effective at controlling the noise exposure is where the issue can become more complex. As consumers, we all want to know that the products we buy perform as advertised – in other words, that they are effective. This is especially true with safety equipment and PPE. With hearing protection, and earplugs in particular, the performance is highly dependent on the user.