Maximizing Safety and Compliance with a Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist

In today's fast-paced and noisy work environments, hearing protection is a critical aspect of occupational health and safety. With the potential for long-term damage from excessive noise exposure, it is essential for employers to take proactive measures to protect their workers' hearing. Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (COHC) - are experts who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise of safety to the workplace. Having one on staff can make all the difference in maintaining a healthy and safe work environment.

Hearing conservation is a critical aspect of workplace safety, as exposure to excessive noise levels can lead to permanent hearing loss. To ensure that workers are protected from the dangers of occupational noise exposure, there is a need for professionals with specialized training and expertise in this field.

In this statement, we will explore the key benefits of having a COHC on staff, and show how these professionals can help ensure compliance with regulations, improve hearing protection, and promote a culture of hearing safety in the workplace.

Brief History

In the late 1940s and 1950s, the issue of occupational hearing loss and the need for hearing conservation gained attention, fueled by the first workers' compensation payment for hearing loss in 1948. As these programs were developed, it became evident that proper training was necessary to conduct accurate and reliable audiometric testing in industrial environments. With the responsibility to assess the hearing of many workers and prevent cases of hearing loss, various organizations placed significant focus on developing training programs and curricula. This resulted in the creation of the Guide for Training Audiometric Technicians in Industry in 1965, through the collaboration of organizations such as the American Association of Industrial Nurses, the Industrial Medical Association, the American Industrial Hygiene Association, and others. In the 1960s, training courses were established, some of which continued for 40 years, led by figures such as Dr. Joseph Sataloff.

In 1972, the American Board of Occupational Hearing Conservation Technicians was established as a certification board for training and certifying technicians and instructors. The goal was to set standards and establish training policies and methods to ensure the availability of high-quality hearing conservation technicians and their participation in high-quality hearing conservation programs in industries of various sizes. The name of the organization was later changed to the Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation in February 1973.

What is a Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (OHC)?

OSHA strongly recommends that everyone administering a hearing test within a hearing conservation program is CAOHC certified. This ensures that your entire staff has been consistently trained and that testing results are consistent throughout your program.

A Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (COHC) is such a professional may be audiologists, physicians, occupational health nurses, industrial hygienists, human resources directors, workplace safety officers or any person interested in occupational hearing conservation who has been certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) to have the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively implement and manage hearing conservation programs in the workplace. COHCs are trained in hearing conservation, including the proper use of hearing protection devices, audiometric testing, and the identification and control of workplace noise. The goal of a COHC is to prevent occupational hearing loss and promote healthy hearing for workers.

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) 29 Code of Federal Regulation 1910.95(g)(3) states that audiometric tests must be conducted by a licensed or certified audiologist, otolaryngologist, physician, or a technician who has been accredited by the Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation (CAOHC) or who has shown proficiency in administering audiometric exams, producing valid audiograms, and properly using, maintaining, and checking the accuracy of the audiometers used.

Although the audiometric testing program must be overseen by a physician or audiologist, a Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (COHC) is more directly involved with noise-exposed workers and their activities. COHCs typically conduct pure tone air conduction audiometric tests, fit hearing protection, offer education, and enforce compliance with the Hearing Conservation Program (HCP).

Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (OHC) education and training requirements typically include:

1. A bachelor's degree in any related field such as audiology, occupational health, industrial hygiene, or safety management. While this is not required, it is recommended.
2. Completion of a course in hearing conservation that covers topics such as anatomy and physiology of the ear, noise-induced hearing loss, hearing protection, and program management. We highly recommend the CAOCH course provided by Earmark Hearing Conservation.
3. Hands-on experience in conducting hearing tests, fitting and maintaining hearing protection devices, and conducting training programs.

Hearing loss is a growing concern for many workers in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and mining. To protect employees from the harmful effects of noise exposure, it is essential for organizations to implement a comprehensive hearing conservation program.

The primary responsibilities and duties of a Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (OHC) include:

1. Design and implement hearing conservation programs: This includes conducting risk assessments, developing noise control strategies, selecting appropriate hearing protection devices, and establishing training programs for employees.
2. Monitor noise levels: OHCs use specialized equipment, such as the Soundtrace equipment, to measure noise levels and ensure that they remain within acceptable limits.
3. Administer hearing tests: OHCs conduct regular hearing tests for employees to monitor the effectiveness of the hearing conservation program and identify any cases of hearing loss.
4. Provide education and training: OHCs educate employees on the dangers of noise exposure, the proper use and maintenance of hearing protection devices, and other aspects of hearing conservation.
5. Evaluate and select hearing protection devices: OHCs evaluate and select appropriate hearing protection devices for their organization and provide training on their proper use.
6. Record keeping and reporting: OHCs maintain accurate and up-to-date records of noise exposure levels, hearing test results, and training programs, and provide regular reports to management and relevant regulatory agencies.
7. Evaluate program effectiveness: OHCs regularly assess the effectiveness of the hearing conservation program and make recommendations for improvements as necessary.

The specific duties and responsibilities of an OHC may vary depending on the size and complexity of the organization they work for, as well as local regulations and industry standards. Soundtrace was designed to help OHC’s simplify and streamline the hearing conservation program at their company.

According to the Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation an effective hearing conservation program (HCP) will prevent noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) and its associated side effects. Identifying, reducing, and eliminating hazardous noise sources in the workplace is the first step of a HCP.

One of the best practices in implementing monitoring in managing a hearing conservation program is conducting regular hearing tests that should be done at least once a year for workers who are exposed to loud noise on a regular basis.

The occupational hearing conservationist is responsible for conducting audiometric testing, training workers on the dangers of noise exposure, providing and fitting hearing protection, monitoring noise levels, and developing and implementing a hearing loss prevention plan.

Prevention of Hearing Loss and Injuries

Hearing Conservation Programs help to identify hazardous noise levels and provide employees with personal protective equipment and training to reduce their exposure. The CDC emphasizes seeking hearing evaluation by a licensed audiologist or other qualified professional, especially if there is concern about potential hearing loss. Early detection of hearing damage can also be accomplished through regular hearing tests and evaluations.

Compliance with OSHA Regulations

Hearing Conservation Programs are also important because they help employers comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. OSHA requires that employers provide hearing protection to employees who are exposed to noise levels that exceed 85 decibels (dB) over an eight-hour period. By implementing a Hearing Conservation Program, employers can demonstrate that they are taking the necessary steps to protect their employees from hazardous noise levels and ensure compliance with OSHA regulations.

Furthermore, Hearing Conservation Programs contribute to improved workplace safety and health by reducing the risk of hearing damage and related health problems, such as tinnitus and stress. A safe and healthy workplace leads to higher productivity, reduced absenteeism, and a lower turnover rate, which ultimately benefits both employees and employers.

Benefits of Having a Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist on Staff

Having an in-house certified occupational hearing conservationist is crucial due to the high incidence of hearing loss in the United States. As a common chronic physical condition, hearing loss ranks third after high blood pressure and arthritis, and is more widespread than diabetes, vision problems, and cancer. Furthermore, the occupational setting is a significant contributor to hearing difficulty, with over 11% of the working population suffering from hearing problems and a quarter of these cases being work-related.

Having a Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (COHC) on staff can greatly benefit your organization in terms of hearing protection and preservation. Let’s dive in to the benefits:

Expertise and Knowledge in Hearing Conservation

• The COHC has received training and certification in hearing conservation, ensuring that they have a thorough understanding of the latest techniques, best practices, and regulations in the field. This expertise helps them to effectively implement and manage a hearing conservation program that protects workers from hearing loss.

Improved Program Implementation and Monitoring

• A COHC has the knowledge and skills to design and implement a comprehensive hearing conservation program that meets the needs of the organization and complies with regulations. They can also monitor the program's effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments to ensure its ongoing success.

Cost Savings through Better Program Efficiency

• A well-run hearing conservation program can reduce the number of workers experiencing hearing loss, which can lead to cost savings in terms of medical expenses, worker compensation claims, and lost productivity. A COHC can help to ensure that the program is run efficiently and effectively, maximizing cost savings.

Increased Employee Awareness and Compliance

• A COHC can play an important role in raising awareness among workers about the importance of hearing conservation and the steps they can take to protect their hearing. This increased awareness can lead to better compliance with the hearing conservation program, further reducing the risk of hearing loss.

A certified occupational hearing conservationist plays a crucial role in preventing hearing loss by managing a hearing conservation program. Companies can demonstrate their commitment to worker’s health and safety and prevent hearing loss, ensuring that their workers are protected and able to perform their duties without suffering any hearing-related problems. Below are the main OSHA requirements that an OHC would be responsible for managinging:

a) Conducting Hearing Tests and Evaluations: OHC personnel are responsible for conducting regular hearing tests and evaluations of workers who are exposed to hazardous noise levels. These tests help to determine the baseline hearing abilities of workers and track changes over time, allowing early detection and intervention of any hearing loss.

b) Providing Hearing Protections and Training: OHC is responsible for ensuring that appropriate hearing protection devices (HPDs) are available and properly used by workers. This includes selecting, fitting, and educating workers on the use and maintenance of HPDs. Training on the correct use of HPDs is an important aspect of HCP implementation, as improper use can decrease the effectiveness of HPDs.

c) Monitoring Noise Levels and Hazard Assessment: The OHC is responsible for monitoring noise levels in the workplace to ensure that they are within acceptable limits. This includes conducting periodic noise surveys, identifying and evaluating sources of hazardous noise, and recommending engineering and administrative controls to reduce exposure.

d) Record Keeping and Reporting: OHC personnel are responsible for maintaining accurate records of workers' hearing test results, noise levels, HPD use, and training. These records help to monitor the effectiveness of the HCP and identify areas for improvement. OHC personnel are also responsible for reporting the results of hearing tests and noise surveys to relevant stakeholders and regulatory bodies as required by law.

Having a Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (COHC) on staff is important for an organization as it can ensure that the organization's hearing conservation program is designed, implemented, and monitored effectively and efficiently, protecting workers from hearing loss.

Why Soundtrace Plus and an OHC are the Ideal Partnership

Preventing hearing loss is important for several reasons. Firstly, hearing loss can have a significant impact on an individual's quality of life, affecting their ability to communicate, participate in social activities, and perform their daily tasks. Secondly, it can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and depression, and can even affect cognitive function and increase the risk of dementia. Finally, hearing loss can result in economic costs, including decreased productivity, increased healthcare expenses, and decreased earning potential.

Noise-induced hearing loss is a serious concern for many workers, and it is the responsibility of employers to protect their employees from the harmful effects of noise exposure. Implementing a comprehensive hearing conservation program is essential for protecting your employees, and there are two key steps you can take to ensure the success of your program: investing in Soundtrace technology and having a Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (COHC) on your team.

The COHC's expertise, knowledge, and dedication to hearing conservation can raise employee awareness and increase compliance with the program, further reducing the risk of hearing loss. Having an in-house COHC on your team brings specialized training and expertise that can provide guidance and support on best practices, ensure compliance with regulations with OSHA, and provide training and support for employees to understand and effectively use their hearing protection devices.

Soundtrace offers a comprehensive solution for conducting hearing tests, including audiometric evaluations and noise exposure assessments, empowering occupational hearing conservationists to closely monitor workers' hearing health.

With built-in tools for monitoring and measuring workplace noise levels, such as real-time noise monitoring and reporting capabilities, Soundtrace helps the occupational hearing conservationist pinpoint areas of concern and take appropriate action to control noise levels.

The platform also features a centralized database for storing and managing hearing test results, hearing protection device usage data, and noise exposure measurements, that allows to track and report on the effectiveness of the hearing conservation program. This information can be utilized to identify trends, evaluate program efficiency, and make improvements for a more effective program over time.

Soundtrace technology and having a COHC on your team is an investment in the future of your organization and the health of your employees. It shows your commitment to their well-being, improves employee morale, and helps to create a safe and healthy workplace.

Upgrade your hearing conservation program with Soundtrace, the ultimate tool for COHCs. Say goodbye to manual tests and scattered records. With built-in tools for monitoring workplace noise and a centralized database, Soundtrace empowers COHCs to closely monitor workers' hearing health, control noise levels, and track program effectiveness. Invest in your employees' well-being and elevate your hearing conservation game today.

The Soundtrace team offers free 1:1 consultations with a hearing conservation. Book your free consultation and demo to see how Soundtrace can help you transform your hearing conservation program!