Automate Noise Dosimetry & Audiometrics

29 CFR 1910.95 Hearing Conservation Program Engine Noise Exposure Assessment AI processes area sound level surveys and personal dosimetry data. Calculates 8-hour TWA per worker using OSHA's 5 dB exchange rate (not NIOSH's 3 dB). Maps noise exposure zones on facility floor plans. Action Level Determination AI identifies all employees exposed at or above 85 dBA TWA (Action Level). These workers must be enrolled in the Hearing Conservation Program. Generates the enrollment roster with effective dates. HPD Selection Analysis Based on actual noise levels per

zone, AI calculates the required NRR for hearing protection using the OSHA derating method: (NRR - 7) / 2. Recommends specific HPD models that achieve adequate attenuation without over-protection. Annual Audiometric Tracking AI compares each worker's annual audiogram against their baseline. Applies the STS formula (≥10 dB average shift at 2000, 3000, and 4000 Hz). Applies age correction (Table F-1) to distinguish occupational shifts from presbycusis. OSHA 300 Log Determination For confirmed STS cases, AI determines recordability: Was the shift

work-related? Does the resulting hearing level exceed 25 dB? If yes to both, it's a recordable hearing loss on the 300 Log. Always use the OSHA exchange rate (5 dB) for compliance, but note that NIOSH recommends 3 dB. Track both for best practice. Perform baseline audiograms within 6 months of program enrollment (or 12 months if using mobile testing). AI tracks these deadlines per employee. Re-test workers who show STS within 30 days — many initial STS findings resolve upon re-test, avoiding unnecessary recordables. Don't select HPDs based solely on

highest NRR — over-protection isolates workers from important auditory signals (alarms, verbal warnings) and creates new hazards. Don't forget the 14-hour quiet period before baseline audiograms — AI should validate that the worker was not exposed to workplace noise for 14 hours before testing. Don't apply age correction retroactively to audiograms that weren't properly baselined — it can mask genuine occupational hearing loss. The 'Engineering Control Priority' Strategy For any area where TWA exceeds 90 dBA (PEL), OSHA requires feasible engineering and

administrative controls before relying on HPDs. Use AI to model noise reduction scenarios: equipment enclosures, vibration dampeners, barrier walls, and maintenance interventions. If the combined reduction brings exposure below 90 dBA, you've avoided the most stringent HCP requirements.