CAOHC Audiometric Booth and Equipment Calibration

Question 1

What is the maximum permissible ambient noise level for the 500 Hz octave band in an audiometric test room according to ANSI S3.1?

Accepted Answer

40 dB SPL

Answer

ANSI S3.1 specifies maximum permissible ambient noise levels (MPANLs) for audiometric testing rooms. For the 500 Hz octave band, the MPANL is 40 dB SPL when testing to 0 dB HL using supra-aural earphones.

Question 2

How often must audiometers used in occupational hearing conservation programs receive exhaustive calibration?

Accepted Answer

At least annually

Answer

OSHA requires exhaustive (electroacoustic) calibration of audiometers at least annually. This comprehensive calibration verifies that the audiometer's output meets ANSI specifications across all frequencies and intensity levels.

Question 3

What is the purpose of the daily biological calibration check of an audiometer?

Accepted Answer

To verify the audiometer is functioning within acceptable limits by testing a person with known, stable hearing

Answer

Daily biological calibration involves testing a person with known, stable hearing thresholds. If results deviate by more than 10 dB from established levels at any frequency, the audiometer requires service before being used for testing.

Question 4

What is the maximum allowable deviation from reference values during a daily functional check of an audiometer?

Accepted Answer

Plus or minus 10 dB at any test frequency

Answer

During a daily functional (biological) check, audiometer output should not deviate by more than plus or minus 10 dB from established reference values at any test frequency. Deviations beyond this indicate the need for recalibration or service.

Question 5

Which ANSI standard governs the specifications for audiometers used in hearing conservation programs?

Accepted Answer

ANSI S3.6

Answer

ANSI S3.6 specifies the requirements for audiometric equipment, including output levels, frequency accuracy, and harmonic distortion limits. Audiometers used in occupational programs must meet this standard.

CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation Practice Test

CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation Practice Test

CAOHC Audiometric Booth and Equipment Calibration