OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewPersonal Protective Equipment (PPE)Medium
An employer is conducting a noise assessment and determines that employees are exposed to noise levels at or above an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) of 85 dBA. According to OSHA, which specific action must the employer implement for these employees?
- AImplement a hearing conservation program.
- BProvide hearing protectors and ensure their use immediately.
- CInstall engineering controls to reduce noise below 85 dBA.
- DConduct annual audiometric testing.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Implement a hearing conservation program.
OSHA's Occupational Noise Exposure standard (29 CFR 1910.95 and 29 CFR 1926.52) requires employers to implement a hearing conservation program for all employees whose noise exposure equals or exceeds an 8-hour TWA of 85 dBA.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Providing hearing protectors is part of the program, but not the entire required action at 85 dBA; it's mandatory when exposures reach 90 dBA or if the employee experiences a standard threshold shift.
- C. Engineering controls are preferred, but OSHA mandates a hearing conservation program at 85 dBA, not necessarily immediate reduction below that level, though it's encouraged.
- D. Annual audiometric testing is a component of the hearing conservation program, not the sole required action.
Hearing Conservation Program Threshold
OSHA requires employers to implement a comprehensive hearing conservation program for employees exposed to noise at or above an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) of 85 decibels (dBA).
- Action level is 85 dBA TWA.
- Program includes noise monitoring, audiometric testing, hearing protection, training, and recordkeeping.
- Aims to prevent occupational hearing loss.
Memory trick: 85 dBA? It's 'Program Time' for hearing conservation!