OSHA permits but does not require age correction of STSs using Appendix F tables. This guide covers when to apply age correction, the strategic implications for STS notification and 300 log recording, and how to document the decision. According to CDC/NIOSH, approximately 22 million U.S. workers are exposed to hazardous occupational noise annually. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95 governs the audiometric testing and recordkeeping that underlies all of these clinical topics.
Soundtrace audiometric testing is supervised by a licensed audiologist who reviews every audiogram — catching clinical findings that automated algorithms alone may miss and ensuring every compliance and clinical obligation is met.
The Age Correction Option Under OSHA 1910.95
OSHA 1910.95(g)(1)(ii) and Appendix F allow employers to use age-corrected audiograms when evaluating whether an STS has occurred. Age correction subtracts expected presbycusis (age-related threshold progression) from the measured threshold change, isolating the non-age component of the shift. If the remaining non-age component is less than 10 dB average at 2k/3k/4k Hz, no STS exists after age correction.
The Decision: Apply Age Correction or Not
| Factor | Favor Applying Age Correction | Favor Not Applying |
|---|---|---|
| Worker age | Workers 50+ where presbycusis is likely contributing | Workers under 40 where presbycusis contribution is minimal |
| STS size | Small STS (10–12 dB) that age correction would eliminate | Large STS (>15 dB) where age correction won't change outcome |
| Audiogram pattern | High-frequency sloping loss consistent with presbycusis | Notch pattern inconsistent with presbycusis |
| Noise exposure level | Worker near action level, not PEL-exceeding | Worker significantly above PEL where noise cause is clear |
| WC considerations | Eliminating false-positive STSs protects against record confusion | Maintaining uncorrected records provides broader protection trail |
The Decision Must Be Made at Time of STS Determination
OSHA does not allow age correction to be applied retroactively to existing STS records. The decision to apply or not apply age correction must be made at the time the STS is determined — specifically, when the Professional Supervisor is reviewing the annual audiogram and calculating the potential STS. The employer's standard practice on age correction should be documented in the written HCP, so the PS applies it consistently.
Effect on 300 Log Recording
If age correction eliminates the STS, the 1904.10 recording trigger is not met (no STS = no recordable case under the hearing loss recording standard). If age correction reduces but does not eliminate the STS (the age-corrected shift is still ≥10 dB), the STS is confirmed and the age-corrected shift is used for the 25 dBHL overall level comparison. See: OSHA 1904.10: hearing loss 300 log recordability guide.
Documenting the Decision
Whatever the employer's standard practice, document it. The HCP should state: "Age correction per Appendix F will/will not be applied when evaluating STSs." If the PS applies age correction to a specific audiogram, document the age correction values used, the corrected shift, and the resulting STS determination. Undocumented age correction decisions are not defensible.
Audiologist-supervised audiometric testing — every audiogram reviewed
Soundtrace audiometric testing is reviewed by a licensed audiologist for clinical significance including STSs, work-relatedness, and referral decisions — ensuring your program meets every 1910.95 and 1904.10 requirement.
Get a Free Quote Book a demo →