The value of a good hearing loss prevention program

With 30 million workers being exposed to noise levels or toxicants that are potentially hazardous to their hearing, the threat of hearing loss is one of the most pervasive occupational health problems in America today.

One study estimates that one in four workers will develop a permanent hearing loss as a result of their occupational exposure to these hazards.

Because of its gradual progression, occupational hearing loss is usually less dramatic than an injury resulting from a workplace accident. However, it is a significant and permanent handicap that can be prevented with an effective hearing loss prevention program. The key word here is effective. Following the minimal requirements of federal and state regulations alone is not enough to preserve workers' hearing or to protect employers from legal action.

An effective program will include:

* Noise exposure monitoring -- be aware of sound levels throughout your work area.

* Engineering and administrative controls. For example, install mufflers, bury the noisy part of the equipment in an underground pit or limit a worker's exposure to the noise by job rotation.

* Audiometric evaluation -- Monitor employees' hearing regularly, and take immediate steps when hearing loss is evident. Remove the worker from the noise exposure and have him or her see a physician about the hearing loss.

* Use of hearing protection devices -- Make protective equipment such as earplugs or mufflers available to employees, courtesy of the company. Also, make the wearing of this equipment mandatory in high noise areas. Enforce strictly.

* Education and motivation -- Provide regular training for employees concerning hearing conservation, stressing the value of the program for them individually. Thorough education will even help employees identify potential threats to hearing in activities outside the workplace.

* Record keeping -- Each element of the hearing conservation program generates its own type of record -- noise survey forms, audiograms, and medical histories. Because hearing loss occurs over time, long-term records are vital. Have a written discipline procedure for non-compliance, and follow it strictly. Document every case of non-compliance with the hearing conservation policy.

* Program evaluation -- The program should be evaluated regularly for effectiveness, either by verifying the completeness and quality of the program or by evaluating audiometric data of the employees.

When a company has an effective hearing loss prevention program, everyone wins. The company reduces its liability and exposure to citations, fines and lawsuits. The employees' hearing and ability to communicate effectively is preserved. And, regular audiometric testing can identify non-noise-related problems, as well as problems caused by noise exposure. Studies even indicate that employees generally feel better, are more rested and may perform better on the job when their exposure to high noise levels is reduced. A work force that fully understands the mutual benefits can work together to protect the gift of hearing.

Randel D. Estep, is with Saints Occupational Health Network/Reno Clinic. St. Anthony Hospital is a Member of SSM Health Care.

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