Noise, or unwanted sound, is one of the most pervasive occupational health problems. It is a by-product of many industrial and commercial processes. Exposure to high levels of noise causes hearing loss and may cause other harmful health effects as well. The extent of damage depends primarily on the intensity and duration of the exposure. Noise-induced hearing loss can be temporary or permanent. OSHA promulgated a hearing conservation amendment that became effective in 1983, (29 CFR 1910.95, Occupational Noise Exposure Standard) requiring hearing conservation programs for all employees exposed to noise on an eight-hour, time weighted average (TWA) in excess of 85 decibels measured on an A-weighted scale (85 dBA). The permissible exposure limit is 90 dBA for an eight-hour TWA.

With an accurate noise survey, the cost impact of a hearing conservation program can be minimized. Using top quality sound level meters and noise dosimeters, Workplace Safety & Health Co., Inc. can help you identify only those employees that need to be included in the program and determine if the initial cost of engineering controls is a sound investment over the on-going costs of hearing conservation program management. Workplace Safety & Health Co., Inc. has the expertise to help you make sound decisions for noise measurement and control.