CAOHC Hearing Conservation Programs 2

Question 1

What are the essential components of an OSHA-compliant hearing conservation program?

Accepted Answer

Noise monitoring, audiometric testing, hearing protectors, training, and recordkeeping

Answer

OSHA requires five key components: noise monitoring, audiometric testing, hearing protectors, annual training, and recordkeeping.

Question 2

At what noise exposure level must employees be enrolled in a hearing conservation program?

Accepted Answer

85 dBA TWA (the action level)

Answer

OSHA action level of 85 dBA TWA triggers hearing conservation program requirements.

Question 3

What is the role of the supervising professional in a hearing conservation program?

Accepted Answer

An audiologist or physician who reviews audiograms, identifies problem cases, and provides clinical oversight

Answer

The supervising professional provides clinical oversight including reviewing audiometric results and determining STS significance.

Question 4

How does a hearing conservation program differ from a hearing loss prevention program?

Accepted Answer

A hearing loss prevention program adds proactive elements beyond OSHA minimum requirements

Answer

A hearing loss prevention program goes beyond OSHA minimums by incorporating engineering controls, program evaluation, and management commitment.

Question 5

What triggers the mandatory use of hearing protectors in an OSHA HCP?

Accepted Answer

Exposure at or above 90 dBA TWA, or any exposure above 85 dBA for employees who have experienced an STS

Answer

OSHA mandates hearing protector use at or above 90 dBA PEL and for any STS employee exposed above 85 dBA.

CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation Practice Test