Answer

Industrial Hygiene Questions

An Effective Hearing Conservation Program Implementation

            Looking at the fact outlined under 29 CFR § 1910.95, it is evident that an employer has a duty to come up with an effective hearing conservation program (HCP) in the events when an employee’s exposure level to noise is equal or more than an 8-hour time-weighted average sound level (TWA) estimated at 85dBA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), n.d.). The case study provides an indication of the fact that the employees were exposed to TWAs estimated at 85 and 89dBAs which is equivalent and exceeds the set threshold respectively. As a result, the employer is required to establish an effective monitoring program.

            An effective hearing conservation program is defined by several requirements. For instance, such a program should be composed of hazard identification, hazard monitoring, hazard communication and training, a list of hearing protection devices, methods of control, record keeping audiometric testing, and continuous monitoring and improvement (OSHA, n.d). To make the program more effective, different steps can be considered. The first step is to measure the noise so as to outline the required actions. The second step is to control the amount of noise to ensure a reduction in the carbon footprint levels. The third step is to protect the employees through the use of appropriate hearing protection devices. The fourth step is to engage in audiometric testing to ensure that employees are not exposed to noise levels above the set 85dBA level. The fifth step is to train the employees about the HCP objectives. The sixth step is to record both short and long-term data to assist the management in making effective decisions about the necessary improvements. The final step is to take part in an evaluation process to guarantee that the HCP is functioning as required (OSHA, n.d). effective in addressing these downsides, hence facilitating an effective engagement process.