OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewPersonal Protective Equipment (PPE)Medium
A worker is exposed to continuous noise levels averaging 90 dBA over an 8-hour workday. According to OSHA standards, what specific action must the employer take regarding hearing protection for this worker?
- AConduct annual audiometric testing.
- BImplement engineering controls immediately to reduce noise below 85 dBA.
- CProvide hearing protection and ensure its use.
- DEnroll the worker in a hearing conservation program.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Enroll the worker in a hearing conservation program.
OSHA requires employers to implement a hearing conservation program when noise exposures equal or exceed an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) of 85 dBA. At 90 dBA, the worker must be included in this program, which includes audiometric testing, hearing protection provision, and training.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Annual audiometric testing is a component of the hearing conservation program, but it's not the sole or initial action required at this exposure level; the entire program is required.
- B. Engineering controls are preferred, but OSHA does not mandate their immediate implementation to reduce noise below 85 dBA at this specific exposure level (90 dBA TWA) as the first and only action. A hearing conservation program is the immediate requirement.
- C. While hearing protection must be provided, the primary action at 90 dBA TWA is enrollment in a full hearing conservation program, which encompasses more than just providing PPE.
OSHA Hearing Conservation Action Level
OSHA's action level for implementing a hearing conservation program is an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) noise exposure of 85 dBA.
- Triggered at 85 dBA TWA
- Requires audiometric testing, hearing protection, and training
- Aims to prevent noise-induced hearing loss
Memory trick: Eighty-five is where conservation starts, ninety is where protection is paramount.