Hearing Conservation Program (HCP)
Introduction
As we mentioned earlier in the course, the employer must administer a continuing, effective hearing conservation program whenever employee noise exposures equal or exceed an 8-hour time-weighted average sound level (TWA) of 85 decibels or a dose of fifty percent.
Hearing conservation programs strive to prevent initial occupational hearing loss, and preserve and protect remaining hearing.
Hearing conservation programs strive to:
- prevent initial occupational hearing loss,
- preserve and protect remaining employee hearing, and
- equip workers with the knowledge and hearing protection devices necessary to safeguard themselves.
Employers are required to:
- measure noise levels;
- provide free annual hearing exams, hearing protection, and training; and
- conduct evaluations of the adequacy of the hearing protectors in use unless changes made to tools, equipment, and schedules result in worker noise exposure levels that are less than the 85 dBA.
Research indicates that workplaces with appropriate and effective hearing conservation programs have higher levels of worker productivity and a lower incidence of absenteeism.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
4-1. A primary requirement of the Hearing Conservation Program (HCP) is to _____.
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