CAOHC Federal Regulations and Standards 2

Question 1

At what 8-hour TWA noise exposure level must an employer implement a hearing conservation program under OSHA?

Accepted Answer

85 dBA

Answer

OSHA requires a hearing conservation program for all employees exposed to an 8-hour TWA of 85 dBA or above, known as the action level.

Question 2

What exchange rate does OSHA use for calculating noise dose?

Accepted Answer

5 dB doubling rate

Answer

OSHA uses a 5 dB exchange rate, meaning that for every 5 dB increase, the allowable exposure time is halved.

Question 3

Which OSHA standard specifically addresses occupational noise exposure in general industry?

Accepted Answer

29 CFR 1910.95

Answer

29 CFR 1910.95 is the OSHA standard governing occupational noise exposure and hearing conservation programs in general industry.

Question 4

Under OSHA, how must hearing loss be recorded on the OSHA 300 Log?

Accepted Answer

When an STS is confirmed and the average hearing level at 2000, 3000, and 4000 Hz reaches 25 dB or more

Answer

OSHA recording criteria require both a confirmed STS AND an average hearing level of 25 dB HL or more at 2000, 3000, and 4000 Hz.

Question 5

What is the maximum permissible exposure limit for noise under OSHA for an 8-hour workday?

Accepted Answer

90 dBA TWA

Answer

The OSHA PEL for noise is 90 dBA as an 8-hour time-weighted average.

CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation Practice Test