CSLB C-27 Landscaping ContractorSafetyHard
A landscaping crew is regularly exposed to loud noise from mowers, trimmers, and blowers. To comply with Cal/OSHA's hearing conservation program requirements, at what average decibel (dBA) level over an 8-hour workday must an employer implement a hearing conservation program?
- A90 dBA
- B75 dBA
- C85 dBA
- D80 dBA
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 85 dBA
Cal/OSHA (Title 8, Section 5097) requires employers to implement a hearing conservation program when employee noise exposures equal or exceed an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) of 85 dBA. This program includes noise monitoring, audiometric testing, and provision of hearing protectors.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 90 dBA is the permissible exposure limit (PEL) for an 8-hour TWA, above which administrative or engineering controls are generally required in addition to a hearing conservation program.
- B. 75 dBA is below the action level for a mandatory hearing conservation program.
- D. 80 dBA is below the action level for a mandatory hearing conservation program.
Hearing Conservation Program (HCP)
A Cal/OSHA mandated program to protect workers from noise-induced hearing loss.
- Required when noise exposure reaches 85 dBA TWA over 8 hours.
- Includes noise monitoring, audiometric testing, hearing protection.
- Aims to prevent permanent hearing damage.
Memory trick: Eighty-five is the line, to keep your hearing fine!