ABA Hearing Conservation & Occupational Audiology Flashcards

Which audiometric test finding would prompt an audiologist to refer a worker for medical evaluation under OSHA's hearing conservation guidelines?

Answer: A confirmed standard threshold shift (STS)

A confirmed STS (not reversed by age correction or re-test) requires the employer to notify the worker and refer them for further medical evaluation if indicated.

A sound level meter set to 'slow' response and A-weighting measures the time-averaged noise exposure for compliance with:

Answer: OSHA TWA using a dosimeter-equivalent method

A-weighted slow-response measurements are used to assess occupational noise exposure in relation to OSHA's TWA limits and PEL for continuous noise.

What is the maximum permissible sound pressure level for impulsive or impact noise under OSHA regulations?

Answer: 140 dB peak

OSHA sets a 140 dB peak sound pressure level ceiling for impulsive or impact noise regardless of duration.

The term 'presbycusis' refers to which condition that must be considered when evaluating occupational hearing loss claims?

Answer: Age-related progressive sensorineural hearing loss

Presbycusis is the gradual bilateral sensorineural hearing loss associated with aging, and age correction tables (ISO 7029) are used to separate it from occupational NIHL.

Audiometric test rooms used for occupational hearing testing must meet maximum permissible ambient noise levels specified by:

Answer: ANSI S3.1 standard

ANSI S3.1 specifies maximum permissible ambient noise levels for audiometric test rooms to ensure that background noise does not mask test stimuli and elevate apparent thresholds.

Which factor is NOT part of a complete occupational hearing conservation program as required by OSHA?

Answer: Cochlear implant provision for workers with STS

OSHA's hearing conservation program requires monitoring, audiometry, hearing protection, recordkeeping, and training — cochlear implant provision is not a program requirement.