CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation Role of the Occupational Hearing Conservationist Questions and Answers Flashcards

What is the primary role of a CAOHC-certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (OHC)?

Answer: To conduct audiometric testing and assist in administering hearing conservation programs

OHCs conduct pure tone audiometric testing and assist with HCP administration under the supervision of a licensed audiologist or physician.

Under whose professional supervision must an OHC conduct audiometric testing per OSHA requirements?

Answer: A licensed audiologist or physician

OSHA requires that OHC audiometric testing be performed under the direct or indirect supervision of a certified audiologist or licensed physician.

How often must a CAOHC-certified OHC renew their certification to remain active?

Answer: Every 5 years

CAOHC certification is valid for 5 years and requires renewal through continuing education and a recertification process.

Which of the following tasks falls WITHIN the recognized scope of an OHC's responsibilities?

Answer: Fitting and demonstrating hearing protection devices to workers

Fitting HPDs and educating workers on their proper use is a core OHC competency within their defined scope of practice.

When an OHC identifies a significant threshold shift on a worker's audiogram, what is the appropriate next step?

Answer: Refer the audiogram to the supervising audiologist or physician for evaluation

Threshold shifts must be referred to the supervising professional, as interpretation and medical determination are beyond OHC scope.

How many contact hours of continuing education does CAOHC require for OHC recertification over the 5-year cycle?

Answer: 20 hours

CAOHC requires OHCs to complete 20 contact hours of approved continuing education during each 5-year recertification period.