Industrial Hearing Test
Hearing damage is an unfortunate effect of long-term exposure to loud noise. Noise is a hazard of industrial workers, and those of any occupation who are repeatedly exposed to loud noise.
Hearing damage can be prevented with the right precautions. Part of prevention is having regular hearing tests to evaluate any early signs of hearing loss, as well as everyday preventative measures such as the use of ear plugs. These two points will go a long way toward prevention of permanent hearing loss.
Industrial Noise Management Programs
The first step in noise management is to perform an exposure assessment to determine the extent of the noise hazard and identify those workers who are at risk. Measurements of noise can be obtained by using a sound level meter, a noise dosimeter and an integrating sound level.
Exposure assessments should be done yearly. If there are any changes in equipment, changes in processes, or if a workers exposures change, additional noise measurements should be conducted.
The Alberta Occupational Health and Safety code specifies that a noise management program must include these following components:
- Worker Education
- Measuring or monitoring workers exposure to noise, on an ongoing basis
- Posting warning signs in any work area where the noise level exceeds 85dBA
- Use of noise control methods
- Selection, use and maintenance of hearing protection
- Audiometric testing done regularly
- Annual program review
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