Which practice supports your employer’s hearing conservation program?
A. Adhering to posted warning signs
B. Skipping audiograms to save the company money
C. Wearing hearing protection when noise levels are above 100 decibels over an 8-hour work day
D. Wearing hearing protection when convenient
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is C. Wearing hearing protection when noise levels are above 100 decibels over an 8-hour work day.
Explanation:
Hearing conservation programs are crucial in workplaces where employees are exposed to hazardous noise levels, as prolonged exposure can lead to permanent hearing loss. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets specific guidelines for noise exposure, emphasizing the importance of using hearing protection in environments where noise levels exceed 85 decibels over an 8-hour workday.
Option C highlights a critical practice in a hearing conservation program: wearing appropriate hearing protection when noise levels reach 100 decibels. At this intensity, the risk of hearing damage increases significantly. Protective gear, such as earmuffs or earplugs, can effectively reduce the amount of noise reaching the inner ear, helping to preserve employees’ hearing health.
In contrast, options A, B, and D do not support the hearing conservation program effectively.
- A. Adhering to posted warning signs is important but only partially addresses the issue; it does not encompass active participation in protection practices.
- B. Skipping audiograms to save the company money directly undermines the program, as audiograms are essential for monitoring employees’ hearing health and identifying potential problems early on.
- D. Wearing hearing protection when convenient is inadequate. Hearing protection should be worn consistently in high-noise environments, not just when it’s convenient, as this approach leaves employees vulnerable to noise-induced hearing loss.
Ultimately, option C embodies the proactive and responsible behavior expected in a hearing conservation program, emphasizing the necessity of protecting employees from harmful noise exposure to maintain their long-term health and well-being.