This is accomplished by utilizing facilities and equipment that have all feasible safeguards incorporated into their design. When effective engineering controls are not feasible, or when they are being initiated, administrative controls will be used when and where possible followed by the use of personal protective equipment. The primary goal of the Company's Hearing Conservation Program is to reduce, and eventually eliminate hearing loss due to workplace noise exposures. Periodic hearing testing will be conducted to monitor the effectiveness of the hearing conservation program. Early detection of temporary threshold shifts will allow further protective action to be taken before permanent hearing loss occurs.
Education is vital to the overall success of a hearing conservation program.
An understanding by employees of the permanent nature of noise-induced hearing loss, the Company hearing conservation program, and the employee's responsibilities under the program are all essential for program effectiveness.