This means employers makes adjustments to the work schedule or workplace that don't require much physical modification. Reducing noise can be done in many ways, which OSHA calls "noise controls." When an employer makes changes to equipment or the surrounding environment, it's known as an "engineering control," such as putting up a barrier or curtain that blocks sound, and/or purchasing low-noise tools and machines.Īnother way to reduce noise is to use administrative controls. Reducing noise: Engineering controls and administrative controlsĪ good noise reduction plan should include measurement of sound levels in the workplace followed by making changes that actually reduce noise levels-and not just handing out earplugs to a few workers and hoping they'll use them appropriately. Note: OSHA has developed hearing standards specifically for the construction industry, too. Records must be kept of employees' varying noise exposure levels.Employers must hold a training program each year about hearing protection to employees who will be exposed to more than 8 hours of 85-decibel noise, or higher.For employees exposed to hearing hazards, employers are required to provide them with various hearing protection options.Thereafter, they should be provided with a yearly audiogram by a certified audiologist, free-of-charge, that should be compared to the baseline audiogram each year to determine if noise exposure has caused hearing loss. Within six months of employment in an environment where they are exposed to loud noises, employees must be given a baseline audiogram.
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