“If it’s too loud–you’re too old!” Or you might just work in an industrial environment where the noise level is usually above 85 decibels, the OSHA-recommended cap for noise exposure. Anything louder can cause significant and permanent hearing loss that can’t be corrected with surgery or medical treatment. 

If you work in an environment with a noise level that’s consistently louder than 85 decibels, OSHA requires some type of hearing protection, usually in the form of earplugs, along with regular hearing tests at no cost to it’s affected employees. 

For businesses in Northeast Mississippi, it’s now easier than ever to schedule onsite hearing exams. EliteCare’s Kevin Miller, NP-C, is now certified to conduct the required OSHA hearing test. In addition to onsite testing, employees who are on vacation or missed their annual hearing exam may schedule an appointment at the EliteCare facility in Guntown.

So how do you know when the noise has reached above 85 decibels? If you have to shout for someone who’s standing 3 feet away for them to hear you, it’s too loud. 

OSHA doesn’t stop at requiring companies to take measures to protect the hearing of employees with perfectly good hearing, they also work to protect workers who already have hearing loss. The safety and health administration requires employers to provide specialized hearing protectors designed for people with hearing issues. Employers must inform employees of the specialized protection available as well as work with employees and the person at the company in charge of the hearing conservation program to create a plan to help protect the impaired employee’s hearing. 

OSHA requires employers to take every measure possible to ensure their employees’ safety although not all employers adhere to the administration’s demands. Even if your employer isn’t doing all they can to protect your hearing loss, you can protect yourself by purchasing and wearing OSHA-approved safety earplugs each and every time you go to work. 

To learn more about OSHA’s hearing safety requirements and what you or your employer can do to protect your hearing, visit OSHA.gov

Need a hearing test for work? EliteCare now offers hearing tests by appointment only! Dial 662-348-3342 to learn more today!