HEARING CONSERVATION MANUAL

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH & SAFETY

Copyright  1989
Iowa State University Research Foundation, Inc.
Iowa State University
Ames, Iowa
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page

I. PHILOSOPHY STATEMENT .................................................................................. 1

Table 1. OSHA Noise Exposure Limits.................................................................. 2
Figure 1. Accountability Chart - HCP..................................................................... 3

II. PROGRAM ELEMENTS .......................................................................................... 4

Exposure Monitoring.................................................................................................... 4
Figure 2. Decision Tree for Determining Participation in HCP................................ 5
Medical Surveillance..................................................................................................... 6
Employee Training........................................................................................................ 7
Recordkeeping.............................................................................................................. 8

III. APPENDICES ............................................................................................................ 9

Appendix A: Outline of OSHA 1910.95........................................................................ 9
Appendix B: Employee Notification of Noise Hazard Areas........................................ 11
Appendix C: Employee Notification of Hearing Tests Results
1. Normal Hearing .............................................................................................. 12
2. Hearing Retest ............................................................................................... 13
3. Standard Threshold Shift ................................................................................. 14
Appendix D: An Overview of the Training Program
1. Employee Training Information....................................................................... 15
2. Employee Training Handout ........................................................................... 16
Appendix E: Program Responsibilities for Occupational Medicine............................... 19
Appendix F: Example Calculation of Adjusted dB Loss............................................... 21
Appendix G: Required Calibration of the Audiometer and Audiometric Booth ............ 22
Appendix H: Employee Audiometric Record .............................................................. 23
Appendix I: Provision for Hearing Protection Devices and Warning Signs................... 25
 I. PHILOSOPHY STATEMENT

Employee hearing conservation at Iowa State University is considered a high priority and an
important objective in overall worker health. The major goal is to reduce continuous noise levels
below a Time Weighted Average (TWA) of 90 decibels through the implementation of reasonably
feasible engineering and administrative controls.

In an effort to maintain effective hearing protection for employees at Iowa State University, a
hearing conservation program has been established. This program includes the following special
consideration for those employees exposed to an "action level" of 85 decibels (dBA) averaged
over an eight hour work day (TWA):

§ An ongoing program of monitoring, identification, and evaluation of noise hazard areas.

§ Annual hearing test (audiograms) of employees.
§ Employee training concerning the effects of noise on hearing and proper use and care of
hearing protection.
§ Appropriate follow-up procedures for those individuals who have experienced a standard
threshold shift (STS).

Individuals in the program will be required to wear hearing protection devices (HPDs) when
working in noise hazard areas so the attenuated noise exposure level is below 90 dBA (TWA).
Employees who have experienced an STS will have noise exposure levels attenuated below 85
dBA (TWA).

The primary objective of the ISU Hearing Conservation Program (HCP) is to alleviate employee
hearing loss as a result of job-related noise exposure. Noise exposure limits as specified by the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are shown in Table 1. A detailed outline
of the OSHA Standard (1910.95) is given in Appendix A.

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 Table 1
OSHA Noise Exposure Limits

Time (Hours) Acceptable Sound Level (dBA)

(Time Weighted Average)

16.00 85

8.00 90

4.00 95

2.00 100

1.00 105

0.50 110

0.25 or less 115

Table 1 shows the maximum time period allowable for the noise exposure listed. The acceptable
sound level (limit) is a time weighted average value. Continuous/intermittent noise exposures
above 115 decibels (dBA) are not allowed by OSHA.

2
An Accountability Chart of the ISU Hearing Conservation Program is shown in Figure 1 below:

ISU Hearing Conservation Program

Figure 1: Accountability Chart

Accountable
Department/Person
Occupational Medicine
Physician and/or Audiometric
Technician
Obligations
Medical Surveillance
1. Facilitate Employee HCP Training
2. Baseline or Annual Audiogram
a. Optional Retest
b. Verification of STS and Employee Notification
c. Referrals
d. Calibration of Audiometric Equipment

HCP Occupational Medicine File

Occupational Medicine
Secretary
Environmental Health & Safety
Industrial Hygienist
1. Maintain a List of Employees in HCP
2. Identification of Potential Noise Hazard(s)
a. Hazardous Inventory Forms & Lab Surveys
b. Physician's Reports
Confidential
Information
Exchange
Exposure Monitoring
1. Conduct Initial and Follow-Up Noise Surveys
2. Notify Employee of Noise Hazard Areas
3. Assist with Annual HCP Training
4. Maintain Noise Exposure Records
5. Determine HPDs with Acceptable Noise Reduction
Rating

Implement Hearing Conservation Program

Workplace Supervisor
1. Report Potential Noise Hazards to EH&S
2. Enforce Wearing of Hearing Protection in Noise Hazards
Areas
3. Conduct Employee Training for Specific Workplace
4. Ensure Proper Labeling of Noise Hazard
Equipment/Areas

The Occupational Medicine Department works in conjunction with the Industrial Hygiene Section
of Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) to facilitate and maintain the ISU Hearing
Conservation Program. The Occupational Medicine Secretary will coordinate the exchange of
confidential information (with the Industrial Hygienist) that is necessary to fulfill the requirements
of the OSHA Hearing Conservation Standard.

3
 II. PROGRAM ELEMENTS

The program elements of the ISU Hearing Conservation Program include:

(1) Exposure Monitoring, (2) Medical Surveillance, (3) Employee Training, and (4)
Recordkeeping. Specific details about each program element follows. A decision tree for
determining participation in the ISU Hearing Conservation Program is shown in Figure 2.

Exposure Monitoring

Monitoring employee exposure to potential noise hazards will be conducted by the Industrial
Hygiene Section of the Environmental Health and Safety Department. Employee noise exposure
monitoring will be initiated:

1. Through routine noise hazard surveys (i.e., general surveys, inquiries, etc.).

2. When a change in an activity or process occurs which potentially increases the noise hazard
to a level of 85 dBA or above (i.e., supervisor initiated).

3. When a potential "noise" problem is indicated on the Physician's Report Form, Lab Site
Survey Form, or Health Hazard Inventory received from the Occupational Medicine
Secretary.

The sampling strategy used to identify noise hazard areas is addressed in Figure 2.

If a potential noise hazard area is identified in the initial exposure monitoring using a sound level
meter, a more detailed investigation will follow utilizing a sound dosimeter to determine which
employees should be included in the hearing conservation program. All employees who are
exposed to an action level of 85 dBA (TWA) or higher will be notified of the noise hazard (via
their supervisor) and included in the ISU Hearing Conservation Program.

To facilitate the notification process, the memo shown in Appendix B will be completed by the
Industrial Hygienist and sent to the employee's supervisor. Provisions for hearing protection
devices (HPD's) and posting noise hazard warning signs (shown in Appendix I) will be attached to
the memo to the supervisor.

The supervisor is responsible for: (1) notifying the affected employee that he/she is included in
the ISU Hearing Conservation Program, (2) pointing out the noise hazards to employees (i.e. on-
site training), (3) providing HPD's for employees working in noise hazard areas, and (4) posting
the proper noise hazard warning signs.

The Industrial Hygienist will notify the Occupational Medicine Secretary of the affected
employees to be included in the program.

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 Figure 2

Decision Tree for Determining Participation in

Iowa State University Hearing Conservation Program

- Routine Survey
Initial - Employee Request
Inquiry - Changes in Operations
- Problems Recognized
ê

Initial Monitoring with No

Sound Level Meter
Is Noise > 85 dBA
Record
ê Yes Keeping

Follow-Up Monitoring with No

Sound Dosimeter
Is Noise > 85 dBA?

ê Yes ê Yes

EH&S Document Problem Yes EH&S Document Problem

and Notify Supervisor and Notify Occ. Med. Dept.

Supervisor Responsibilities EH&S Responsibilities Occ. Med. Responsibilities

1. Inform employee of
noise hazards
2. Notify employee to
Participate in Hearing
Conservation Program
3. Post hearing conserva-
tion signs and affix
labels
4. Provide hearing
protection equipment
and training
1. Provide periodic
monitoring
2. Coordinate training and
information on HCP
3. Recommend hearing
protection devices
4. Continuous follow-up
and assistance
1. Conduct hearing exams
2. Maintain records
3. Provide training
4. Coordinate with EH&S
to maintain compliance
with OSHA

Include Employees in
Hearing Conservation Program

5
Medical Surveillance

An outline of the medical surveillance portion of the ISU Hearing Conservation Program is shown
below. The first three items listed will be conducted by the audiometric technician and physician
within the Occupational Medicine Department. Communications with the Industrial Hygienist
(Item 4) will occur via the Occupational Medicine Secretary.

Specific sections of the OSHA standard (29 CFR 1910.95) are listed for easy reference.

1. Audiometric Testing by certified technician [(g)(3)]:

a. Baseline Audiogram [(g)(5)(i)]:

(1) Provided within six months of initial employment for all employees in noise
hazard areas [i.e., greater than or equal to 85 dBA (TWA)].

b. Annual Audiogram [(g)(6)-(10)]:

(1) Audiogram evaluation [(g)(7)]:

(a) Determine if retest or referral is necessary.

(b) Determine if standard threshold shift (STS) has occurred.
(c) Employee notification upon diagnosis of STS (within
21 days). See appropriate sample in Appendix C.
(d) Substitution of baseline audiogram with current
audiogram (as applicable).
(e) Send Physician's Report Form to Occupational
Medicine Secretary (as applicable).
(f) Update list of employees in Hearing Conservation
Program. Send any changes in the list to the
Occupational Medicine Secretary.

2. Employee Training [(k)(l)-(3)]:

a. Purpose and procedures of audiometric testing.

b. Hearing Protection Devices (HPDs):

(1) Demonstration of proper use and instruction on adequate care.

(2) Determination of proper fit (size and type).
(3) Explanation of attenuation provided.
(4) Purpose, advantages, and disadvantages of various HPDs available.

c. Effects of noise on hearing.

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3. Audiometer and Audiometric Booth Evaluations [(h)(5)]:

a. Perform or secure daily, acoustic, and exhaustive calibrations as required.

4. Communicate with the Industrial Hygienist to facilitate the ISU Hearing Conservation
Program (HCP):

a. Notify the Industrial Hygienist of any employees to be added to (or deleted from) the
HCP.
b. Notify the Industrial Hygienist when clarification of a noise hazard area is needed. The
vehicle for notification will be via the Physician's Report, Lab Site Survey Form, or
Hazard Inventory Form.

Employee Training

A summary of the employee training program for the ISU Hearing Conservation Program is
outlined below. All employees exposed to noise at or above the action level of 85 dBA (based on
an 8 hour time weighted average) will receive training.

1. Training will occur annually at Occupational Medicine for all employees in the program at
the time the employee receives his/her yearly hearing test:

a. A videotape will be shown and employee questions answered by the Audiometric

Technician.

b. The employee will receive a handout summarizing important points addressed in

training.

2. Specific issues will be addressed in the training:

a. The effects of noise on hearing.

b. Information about hearing protection devices (HPDs):

(1) Purpose.
(2) Advantages and disadvantages.
(3) Attenuation provided.
(4) Instructions on selection, fitting, use, and care.

c. Audiometric testing:

(1) Purpose and explanation of test procedures.

Specific information presented to the employee during the occupational medicine training
program is addressed in Appendix D.1. The handout given to employees is shown in
Appendix D.2.

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3. Supervisors are required to conduct employee training at their worksite. That training must
orient the worker to:

a. Noise hazard areas and operations.

b. The availability and location of hearing protection devices (HPDs).

c. Warning signs and labels indicating the need for wearing hearing protection.

d. A satisfactory location where HPDs can be cleaned (if applicable).

Recordkeeping

Records pertaining to the ISU Hearing Conservation Program are categorized and filed as
follows:

1. Noise Exposure Records

a. Filed and maintained by the Industrial Hygienist. Stored in the

Environmental Health and Safety Department.

2. Audiometric Test Records

a. Filed by audiometric technician and stored at Occupational Medicine.

The file shall include:

(1) Employee name and job classification.

(2) Date of examinations.
(3) Examiner's name.
(4) Date of acoustic or exhaustive calibrations.
(5) Measurements of the background sound pressure level in the
audiometric testing booth.

3. Employee Training Records

a. Filed and maintained by the audiometric technician. Stored at Occupational

Medicine. The Industrial Hygienist will help develop training materials and
coordinate efforts with the Occupational Medicine Department and
employee supervisors.

The form shown in Appendix H will be used to facilitate recordkeeping requirements.

Copies of the OSHA Hearing Conservation Standard will be made available to employees and/or
their representative(s) at the EH&S Offices, 118 Agronomy Lab, and at the Personnel Offices, 16
Beardshear.

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Appendix A

Outline of OSHA 1910.95

Hearing Conservation Program
Iowa State University

1. Action level TWA ≥ 85, based on 50% dose.

2. Noise levels accumulated ≥ 80 dBA (continuous). Includes impact noise to 130 dBA.

3. Monitoring will be an ongoing process. Any change in a process will also be subject to a
noise evaluation.

4. Employees will be notified if they are involved in areas where noise ≥ 85 dBA (TWA).

5. Employees have the right to observe monitoring.

6. Audiometric Testing Program:

a. Available to all employees whose noise exposure is ≥ 85 dBA (TWA). This will be
done at no cost to the employee.
b. Performed by a licensed professional or certified technician (certified by Council of
Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation).
c. Baseline audiogram must be taken within six (6) months after the employee is
exposed to noise levels ≥ 85 dBA (TWA). Notify employee that high noise levels
(≥ 85 dBA-TWA) must be avoided 14 hours prior to examination (hearing protection
devices may be utilized).
d. Annual audiogram for all employees in the program. Evaluate annual audiogram
with established baseline to determine if a standard threshold shift (STS) has
occurred. (Average loss of 10 dB @ 2k, 3k, and 4k Hertz. Allowance for
presbycusis may be included.)
e. Follow-up Procedures
1. Notify employee within 30 days if a retest is necessary.
2. Inform the employee of the results within 21 days (in writing) if a STS is
diagnosed.
3. Fit and train employees in relation to wearing hearing protection. (Refit and
retrain employees with STS.)
f. Referral
If further examination is necessary, provide physician with pertinent information.

7. Hearing Protection Attenuation:

a. Must attenuate employee noise exposure £ 90 dBA (TWA). For employees w/STS,
attenuation must be £ 85 dBA (TWA). Re-evaluate HPDs if this criteria is not met.

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8. Training Program:
a. For all employees exposed to noise ≥ 85 dBA (TWA).
b. Training program shall be repeated annually to include:
1. The effect of noise on hearing.
2. The purpose of hearing protectors (advantages, disadvantages, types, selection,
fitting, use and care).
3. Purpose of audiometric testing and an explanation of the test procedures.

9. Access to information and training materials:

a. Post copies of standard in the workplace.
b. Make information available to employee and Assistant Secretary of Labor (upon
request).

10. Record Keeping:

a. Exposure measurements
b. Audiometric tests--include the following:
1. Name and job classification of employee.
2. Date of the audiogram.
3. Examiner's name.
4. Date of last acoustic or exhaustive calibration of the audiometer.
5. Employee's most recent noise exposure assessment.
6. Measurements of background sound pressure levels in audiometric testing
room.

11. Retention of Records:

a. Noise exposure records retained for two years.
b. Audiometric test records retained for duration of affected employee's employment.

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Appendix B

Employee Notification of Noise Hazard Areas

Hearing Conservation Program
Iowa State University

Date:

To: Supervisor PLEASE POST OR GIVE TO

EMPLOYEE(S) INVOLVED.

From: Paul Richmond, Industrial Hygienist

118 Agronomy Lab
Environmental Health and Safety

Re: Employee Notification of Noise Hazard Areas as Required by the ISU Hearing
Conservation Program

The employee(s) and area(s) identified below were involved in a noise hazard survey conducted
by the Environmental Health & Safety Department. Results of the monitoring indicate that noise
levels are in excess of allowable OSHA standards [85 dBA, averaged over an eight hour work day
(TWA)]. Wearing hearing protection will reduce noise levels to within acceptable limits.
Therefore, proper hearing protection devices must be worn by all individuals working in this area
(or when doing this type of work). Notify EH&S of any discrepancies and/or other employees
who may have been excluded from this list. Post "Hearing Protection Required" sign(s) in the
noise hazard work area(s). See attached Appendix I, "Provisions for Hearing Protection Devices
and Warning Signs."

The employees identified:

1. Are now included in the ISU Hearing Conservation Program. This program requires that
employees exposed to noise levels of 85 dBA (TWA) or above:
a. Be notified of the noise hazard areas (jobs).
b. Be provided hearing protection devices and be required to wear them while
conducting this work.
c. Receive an annual hearing test and training about the effects of noise exposure as
well as other pertinent information about hearing protection. Occupational Medicine
will contact any employee in the program who has not received the hearing test within
the past year.

Results of Monitoring
Building/Location: ______________________________________ Date: ___________
Person Conducting Survey: _____________________________________________________
Employee(s) Job Description Area Surveyed Noise Level (TWA)

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Appendix C.1

Employee Notification of Normal Hearing

Hearing Conservation Program
Iowa State University

Date: _________________________

Employee ID: __________________

Dear : ________________________

The results of your recent hearing test indicate your present level of hearing is normal for your
age and sex. However, it is important that you continue to wear hearing protection as required
for your job. You will remain in the Hearing Conservation Program due to the noise hazards you
encounter in your job.

It is also important for you to wear hearing protection off the job during those home activities that
are extremely loud. For example, excessive noise levels may be produced from electric drills,
sanders, power saws, grass and hedge trimmers, lawn mowers, snow blowers, garden tractors and
other equipment operated around the house. This equipment can damage your hearing if hearing
protection is not worn.

Additionally, even though it is not required, wear hearing protection any time you feel an area is
noisy. People find different types of noise annoying. Reducing the noise level has been found to
reduce fatigue and anxiety for some individuals. You may feel better at the end of a workday by
wearing hearing protection.

Remember, this evaluation is conducted to protect your hearing. Only you know if the hearing
protection device is being worn properly (and as required). Contact Occupational Medicine at
294-2056 if you aren't sure about proper fit.

Signature of Audiometric Technician: _______________________

Title: ______________________, Occupational Medicine

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Appendix C.2

Employee Notification Hearing Retest

Hearing Conservation Program
Iowa State University

Date: _______________________________

Employee ID: ________________________

Dear: _______________________________

The results of the recent hearing test you received at Occupational Medicine indicate your hearing
ability has changed from previous measurements. This hearing loss may have been caused by
unusual noise exposure, current medication, common cold, or other conditions that effect hearing.
Your hearing must be retested to determine whether the new threshold of hearing is persistent.

Your hearing retest has been scheduled for ____________ . Call Occupational Medicine to
confirm this appointment (4-2056).

It is important that you be in a quiet area for at least fourteen (14) hours prior to the hearing
examination. If you are going to be in a noisy area (³85 dBA*), it will be necessary for you to
wear hearing protection. Your supervisor will be able to tell you if you need to wear hearing
protection at work.

Show this letter to your supervisor. Have him/her sign below to be sure you can be released at
the time noted above. Bring this signed form with you to Occupational Medicine, G11 TASF.
Take the form back to your supervisor when you return to work.

Signature of Supervisor: ____________________________

Title/Department: _________________________________

Signature of Audiometric Technician: _________________

Return Time: _____________

*If you need to "raise your voice" in order to be heard by another person (within 3 feet), the
sound is probably above 85 dBA.

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Appendix C.3

Employee Notification Standard Threshold Shift

Hearing Conservation Program
Iowa State University

Date: _______________________________

Employee ID: ________________________

Dear: _______________________________

The results of the recent hearing test you received at Occupational Medicine indicates your
hearing ability has changed from previous measurements. Your average hearing loss is ______
decibels (dB) and represents what is known as a permanent Standard Threshold Shift (STS). This
degree of hearing loss is categorized as: ____slight, ____moderate, ____high.
(appropriate response checked)

It is very important that you eliminate your exposure to high levels of noise. (If you have to raise
your voice to be heard by another person within a three foot distance, that would be considered a
high noise level.) Noise hazard areas at ISU have been identified and your supervisor has been
notified of these areas.

You are required to wear hearing protection devices in noise hazard areas at ISU. Wearing
hearing protection devices will reduce on-the-job noise levels to within acceptable limits and
should eliminate further loss in your hearing ability. Hearing protection devices are available from
your supervisor and Central Stores.

It is also important for you to wear hearing protection off the job during those home activities that
are extremely loud. For examples, high levels of noise may be produced from electric drills,
sanders, power saws, grass and hedge trimmers, lawn mowers, snow blowers, garden tractors,
and other equipment operated around the house. Operating this equipment without hearing
protection can further damage your hearing.

This letter is being sent to you in compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration
regulations requiring that we notify you of this change in your hearing ability. Please contact the
Occupational Medicine Office (294-2056) or the ISU Industrial Hygienist (294-9698) if you have
any questions related to the Hearing Conservation Program.

Signature of Audiometric Technician: _______________________

Title: _______________________, Occupational Medicine

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Appendix D.1

Employee Training Information

Hearing Conservation Program
Iowa State University

A. Reasons for Wearing a Hearing Protection Device (HPD)

1. Compliance with Standards--various locations and job assignments have been
designated as "Noise Hazard" areas.
2. Noise exposure in the work area may damage hearing over a given time.
3. People with a known hearing loss may accentuate the loss rate if hearing protection is
not worn.
4. Many employees notice a reduction of anxiety and fatigue at the end of the work
day.

B. Insure Earplugs and/or Muffs Fit Properly

1. Different sizes and types are available.
2. Comfort and effectiveness are important (but if the ear plugs or muffs are not
effective, comfort means nothing).
3. Your voice will sound "muffled" or "hollow" (similar to how voice sounds when
talking into a hollow log).
4. Insertion technique
a. Allow time for foam plugs to expand after insertion. See instructions on
package.
b. Choose the proper size of ear plugs. Many times, too small a plug is chosen.
c. The muff cushion should fit comfortably (make sure it is always flexible and
forms a good seal around the ear).

C. Proper cleaning and care of the Hearing Protection Device (HPD).

1. Expandable foam: Dispose of when dirty.
2. Preformed: Wash with warm water and mild soap.
3. Muffs: Clean cushions with damp cloth rinsed in mild soapy water.
(Do not tamper with plugs or muffs--drilling or poking holes in them destroys the
effectiveness. Remember, it is your hearing that will suffer).

D. Who to contact when you have problems or need replacements.

1. Immediate Supervisor.
2. Central Stores (replacement hearing protection devices).
3. Occupational Medicine (hearing problems or discomfort/persistent ear pain, drainage,
dizziness, or ringing in the ears).
4. Environmental Health and Safety Department (changes in procedure or other noise
related problems). The designated person in charge of the Hearing Conservation
Program is the Industrial Hygienist.

E. Failure to Wear HPDs as Required.

1. Disciplinary action will be taken as required (flagrant and purposeful violation may
lead to termination).

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Appendix D.2

Employee Training Handout

Hearing Conservation Program
Iowa State University

The following points of review are included in employee training for the ISU Hearing
Conservation Program. Keep this form stored where you can review it if and when you have
questions.

A. The Effects of Noise on Hearing.

Hearing can be damaged by loud noise. Noise can destroy tiny "hair cells" inside your
head that cannot be replaced. The noise does not have to be a constant sound to
damage hearing. Short loud bursts are damaging too. Your supervisor should tell
you which work areas may cause hearing damage. If not, ask. You can protect your
hearing by wearing ear plugs or muffs in noisy areas.

B. Hearing Protection Devices (HPD).

1. Advantages and disadvantages of the different types.

Ear muffs are simple to wear and are fairly comfortable. They are easy to clean.
However, eyeglass bars, hair and other obstructions reduce protection provided
by breaking the seal between head and muff.

Ear plugs also provide good protection. However, they must be inserted
correctly. For some, slight wearing discomfort may be expected until the
person becomes accustomed to the fit.

2. Hearing protection provided by different types.

Hearing protection of a HPD is measured by Noise Reduction Rating (NRR).

The higher the NRR, the better the HPD. Ear plugs available at Central Stores
will range in NRR from 26-35 (depending on the brand). Ear muffs will have
NRR's ranging from 20-27. Check with your supervisor or EH&S (294-9698)
if you have any questions about the appropriate HPD to wear in your
workplace.

16
 3. Selection and fitting of hearing protection devices.

HPDs are available through your supervisor or at Central Stores. Follow the
manufacturer's specific instructions on the side of the original container to
ensure a proper fit. If you experience difficulty in fitting or wearing an HPD,
contact Occupational Medicine at 4-2056.

a. General Instructions:

MUFFS
Ear muffs should be placed over the ear so a good seal is formed between
the head and the muff cushion.

PLUGS
To insert ear plugs, reach over the head with your hand and pull the ear
up and outward to open the ear canal. Holding the plug between thumb
and forefinger of the other hand, insert the plug into the ear with finger
pressure and a slight turning until a seal is made. (Expandable "foam"
plugs will need to be "rolled" prior to insertion into the ear canal and held
in place for about 30 seconds while the foam expands).

4. Proper use and care of the HPD.

Clean your hands prior to inserting plugs into the ear canal. Reusable plugs
should be washed after each use. Mild warm soapy water will do. Rinse with
clean water. Disposable plugs must be discarded if they become dirty. Do not
tamper with the design of a plug or muff.

Store plugs and muffs in the original container or a clean plastic bag. Contact
Occupational Medicine (294-2056) if you experience continued difficulty
pertaining to use and/or care.

C. Audiometric testing.

1. Purpose of hearing test.

The test is conducted to determine if your ability to hear has changed since your
last examination. In other words, it's a way to ensure adequate steps are being
taken to protect your hearing. Report any hearing related problems to
Occupational Medicine.

17
2. Explanation of testing procedures.

During the test, the Occupational Medicine nurse uses an "audiometer" to

produce special frequencies of sound. The sound that you hear in the
earphones will vary in loudness and "pitch." The machine records when an
employee indicates that they "hear" the sound. A record (audiogram) is made
of the lowest level (threshold) of hearing. A comparison of this record is made
with an average person's hearing. All test records for an employee are kept and
compared to see if a change in hearing has occurred from year to year. You
will be notified if any significant changes occur in your hearing ability.

18
Appendix E

Program Responsibilities for Occupational Medicine

Hearing Conservation Program
Iowa State University

1. The audiogram must be performed by a licensed professional or a certified technician.

2. The audiometer must be checked daily by a person with normal hearing and calibrated at
least every two years. In addition, an "acoustic" measurement must be routinely conducted
to insure linearity of sound between various frequencies and sound pressure output.

3. The audiometric booth must be monitored with a sound level meter to ensure sound from
external sources is kept below specific levels.

4. A baseline audiogram must be established within six months after the employee works in a
noise hazard area. The employee must observe a fourteen hour "quiet time" prior to taking
this hearing test. Annual audiograms must be taken and evaluated, thereafter, for all
employees in the Hearing Conservation Program.

5. The annual audiogram must be compared with the baseline audiogram to determine if a
hearing loss is indicated. An average loss of ten decibels (at specific frequencies) is called a
"Standard Threshold Shift" (STS). (An example calculation is shown in Appendix F.)

6. The Occupational Medicine Secretary must be notified of any diagnosed STS or related
employee hearing problems.

7. The employee must be notified (by memo) within twenty-one days after the STS has been
determined. If a retest is necessary, the employee must receive written notice within 30 days
of the initial hearing test. (See Appendix C).

8. In the case where a referral is made to another physician, specific information (including
previous audiograms and program requirements) must be provided. The employee must be
notified of the results of this referral after it has been received by Occupational Medicine.

9. Employees in the ISU Hearing Conservation Program must be trained about noise hazards
and corrective actions. An employee training videotape is shown to satisfy specific
requirements. In addition, emphasis must be placed on proper use and care of hearing
protection devices. Employees who have experienced an STS must be retrained about noise
hazards and refitted with hearing protection devices.

19
10. Up-to-date records must be kept of the ISU Hearing Conservation Program. These records
include: a) calibration dates of the audiometer, b) audiometric testing results, c) details
regarding referrals and retests, and d) a list of employees in the Hearing conservation
Program and their work assignments.

11. Records must be kept for the duration of the employee's employment.

* For specific requirements, see 29 CFR 1910.95.

20
Appendix F

Example Calculation of Adjusted dB Loss

Hearing Conservation Program
Iowa State University
Name: Employee ID: 0001

1. Enter allowance for prebycusis at age of most recent audiogram:

Age 32
R 5 R 7 R 10
@ 2000 Hz @ 3000 Hz @ 4000 Hz
L 5 L 7 L 10

2. Enter allowance for presbycusis at age when baseline audiogram was taken (from Table F-1 or F-2,
1910.95).
Age 27
R 4 R 6 R 7
@ 2000 Hz @ 3000 Hz @ 4000 Hz
L 4 L 6 L 7

3. Enter hearing threshold for the present audiogram at these frequencies:

R 10 R 10 R 25
@ 2000 Hz @ 3000 Hz @ 4000 Hz
L 12 L 8 L 12

4. Subtract #2 from #1 at each of the frequencies and enter below:

R 1 R 1 R 3
@ 2000 Hz @ 3000 Hz @ 4000 Hz
L 1 L 1 L 3

5. Subtract results of #4 from #3 at each of the frequencies listed:

R 9 R 9 R 22
@ 2000 Hz @ 3000 Hz @ 4000 Hz
L 11 L 7 L 9

6. Enter hearing threshold at these frequencies for the baseline audiogram:

R 0 R 0 R 5
@ 2000 Hz @ 3000 Hz @ 4000 Hz
L 0 L 0 L 0

7. Subtract results of #6 from #5 at each of the frequencies listed:

R 9 R 9 R 17
@ 2000 Hz @ 3000 Hz @ 4000 Hz
L 11 L 7 L 9

8. Add all "Row" values listed in #7 (for "R" and "L") and divide by three (average). Enter this average below.
R 11.6 This is the average of dB loss (adjusted for the individual tested).
L 9.0 (If the value is greater than or equal to 10 db, notify EH&S.)
Send the appropriate notification to the employee.

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Appendix G

Required Calibration of the Audiometer and Audiometric Booth

Hearing Conservation Program
Iowa State University

A. Background sound pressure levels at listed frequencies for audiometric booth (Appendix D,
OSHA 1910.95).

B. Daily calibration of audiometer with person of known stable threshold ³ 10 dB deviation

implies need for acoustical calibration).

C. Acoustical calibration of audiometric equipment with sound level meter at stated

frequencies. Two checks are required:
1. Sound pressure output of audiometer.
2. Linearity at various dB levels. (Appendix E, OSHA 1910.95)
(If deviations of ± 3 dB are found, an exhaustive calibration is advised. If deviations
are ³ 10 dB, an exhaustive calibration is required.)

D. Exhaustive calibration of audiometer involves sending instrument away for an in-depth

calibration. (Required at least every two years by OSHA.)

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Appendix H

Employee Audiometric Record

Hearing Conservation Program
Iowa State University
Employee Name: ________________________ I.D.#: _____ Job Classification: ___________________

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Date Comp. Retest Average STS EH&S Employee Referral Follow-up Examiner's Name Employee
with Necessary Hearing Noted Notified Notified Letter Comments Training
Base- Loss (Adj) Conducted
line
Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N
R R
L L
R R
L L
R R
L L
R R
L L
R R
L L
R R
L L
R R
L L
R R
L L
R R
L L
R R
L L
R R
L L
R R
L L

An Explanation of each column entry for the form is as follows:

Column 1: Date of entry

Column 2: Put a checkmark (þ) to indicate that a comparison was made with the
employee's baseline audiogram while completing this.
Column 3: Enter a checkmark (þ) under "Y" (yes) or "N" (no) to indicate whether a retest
is necessary in this particular case.
Column 4: After calculating the average hearing loss using the form in Appendix F, enter
the specific adjusted values for the left and right ears. The "adjusted" value
indicates that allowance has been made for presbycusis (see Table F-1 or F-2 of
OSHA regulations 29 CFR 1910.95). Enter "none" if no hearing loss has
occurred.
Column 5: Enter a checkmark (þ) if a standard threshold shift was noted for this individual
("Y" for yes and "N" for no). Enter the appropriate specific response for left (L)
and right (R) ears.
Column 6: If a standard threshold shift (STS) is noted in either ear, the EH&S office must
be notified. Indicate the action taken with a checkmark (þ) in either the "Y"
(yes) or "N" (no) subcolumn.

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Column 7: In the case where an employee has experienced an STS, he/she must be notified
of this situation (in writing) within 21 days of determination that such a situation
exists. Indicate, with a checkmark (þ) in either the "Y" (yes) or "N" (no)
subcolumns, whether such notification is necessary for this particular employee.
Send memo in Appendix C.3 as appropriate.
Column 8: Some employees may require special consideration and additional consultation
by another physician. Indicate whether that action is necessary in this particular
instance by entering a checkmark (þ) under the "Y" (yes) or "N" (no)
subcolumn to indicate whether such action was taken for the employee in
question.
Column 9: A follow-up letter must be sent to notify the employee about the results of the
referral in column 8. Indicate with a checkmark (þ) if a follow-up letter was
sent.
Column 10: The examiner (technician) conducting the hearing examination must be identified
(according to OSHA regulations). The space provided may be used for that
purpose as well as other pertinent information dealing with the current
examination (e.g., "severe cold," "14-hour quiet time not honored," "acute ear
infection noted").
Column 11: Employees in the ISU Hearing Conservation Program will view a videotape and
receive training about noise hazards and appropriate actions to take. Indicate
with a checkmark (þ) that this employee has received the training.

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Appendix I

Provision for Hearing Protection Devices (HPDs) and Warning Signs

Hearing Conservation Program
Iowa State University

Iowa State University has instituted an employee Hearing Conservation Program as mandated by
the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (29CFR 1910.95). It is the supervisor's
responsibility to make the HPDs accessible to employees, ensure they are used as required, and
post "Hearing Protection Required" signs in the Noise Hazard Area. "Hearing Protection
Required" labels shall be affixed to noise hazard equipment (see examples in #3 below).

1. Hearing Protection Devices:

Employees working with loud equipment or in noise hazard areas (at or above 85 dBA, time
weighted average) are required to wear hearing protection devices (HPDs).

Adequate HPDs must be provided to the employee free of charge. Several types of hearing
protection devices meeting acceptable criteria are available at Central Stores.

2. Warning Signs:

Noise hazards and noise hazard areas must be identified through the following methods:

a. Sign(s) posted in noise hazard area.

Hearing Protection Required

in This Work Area

Or

Hearing Protection Required

Beyond This Point

b. Sign or sticker posted on loud equipment.

CAUTION
Wear Hearing Protection
While Operating Equipment

Appropriate warning signs and equipment stickers are available

through Central Stores. Any modification in wording must be
accepted by Environmental Health & Safety.

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3. Examples of "Noisy" Equipment:

Air chisels, air hammers, air nozzles, air wrenches, etc.

Compressor pumps and vacuum systems.
Electric and power saws (band, chain, circular, table, etc.)
Electric drills.
Grinding and emery wheels.
Heavy equipment (back hoes, tractors, etc.)
High pressure washers.
Power lawn mowers, garden tractors, and power weed trimmers.

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