751 Hearing Conservation Program Management

Program Evaluation Checklist

An effective hearing conservation program improvement process begins with a thorough audit of the current HCP followed by analysis and evaluation of the various elements in the program. Start by developing a checklist to conduct an audit ensuring a comprehensive approach to compliance with regulations. Below is a checklist that includes sample questions that may be used as part of the checklist:

Key Responsibilities:

Identify and define roles for those providing facilities, implementing the program, and supervising. Training must be detailed and specific. Questions related to key responsibilities include:

1. Have managers and supervisors been provided with the knowledge required to supervise the use and care of hearing protectors by employes?
2. Do managers and supervisors wear hearing protectors in appropriate areas?
3. Have supervisors been counseled when employees resist wearing protectors or fail to show up for hearing tests?
4. Are disciplinary actions enforced when employees repeatedly refuse to wear hearing protectors?

Hazard Assessment:

Verify proper hazard measurement and evaluation methods. Ensure findings are recorded in health records and communicated effectively. Questions related to hazard assessment include:

1. Have noise control needs been prioritized?
2. Has the cost-effectiveness of various options been addressed?
3. Are employees and supervisors apprised of plans for noise control measures? Are they consulted on various approaches?
4. Will in-house resources or outside consultants perform the work?
5. Have employees and supervisors been counseled on the operation and maintenance of noise control devices?
6. Are noise control projects monitored to ensure timely completion?
7. Has the full potential for administrative controls been evaluated? Are noisy processes conducted during shifts with fewer employees? Do employees have sound-treated lunch or break areas?

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.