CAOHC OSHA Noise Standard Compliance Flashcards
6 cards from real CAOHC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 CAOHC OSHA Noise Standard Compliance flashcards as text
Under OSHA, what must the employer do when monitoring reveals that worker noise exposures have decreased below the action level?
Answer: The employer may discontinue hearing conservation program elements for those workers, but should maintain audiometric records
When noise exposures consistently fall below the 85 dBA action level, the employer may discontinue hearing conservation program requirements for those workers. However, existing audiometric records should be maintained for the duration of employment.
What is the purpose of the 'professional review' of audiometric records required by OSHA?
Answer: To have a qualified professional evaluate each audiogram for STS and determine if referral or follow-up is needed
OSHA requires that audiograms be reviewed by a qualified professional (audiologist, otolaryngologist, or other physician) who evaluates each record for STS, considers the need for further evaluation or referral, and determines appropriate follow-up actions.
What OSHA recordkeeping requirement applies to noise exposure measurement records?
Answer: Measurements must be retained for at least 2 years
OSHA requires that noise exposure measurement records be retained for at least 2 years. This retention period allows for reference during subsequent monitoring comparisons and OSHA inspections.
What is the OSHA requirement when a worker with normal hearing at baseline begins working in an area with noise exposure at 88 dBA TWA?
Answer: Enroll the worker in the hearing conservation program since exposure exceeds the 85 dBA action level
At 88 dBA TWA, the worker is above OSHA's 85 dBA action level and must be enrolled in the hearing conservation program. This includes noise monitoring, baseline and annual audiometric testing, hearing protector availability, and annual training.
How does OSHA's noise standard address workers with pre-existing hearing loss?
Answer: They must be included in the hearing conservation program with special attention to hearing protector adequacy
Workers with pre-existing hearing loss must be included in the hearing conservation program if exposed at or above the action level. Special attention should be given to ensuring their hearing protectors adequately attenuate noise and that any further deterioration is promptly detected.
What is the ultimate purpose of OSHA's occupational noise standard from the CAOHC OHC perspective?
Answer: To provide a regulatory framework that enables OHCs to identify, prevent, and manage occupational hearing loss
From the CAOHC OHC perspective, OSHA's noise standard provides the regulatory framework that supports their mission of preventing occupational hearing loss. The standard's monitoring, testing, protection, and training requirements are the tools OHCs use to protect workers' hearing.