How long should employee audiometric records be kept according to OSHA regulations?

According to OSHA regulations, employee audiometric records must be maintained for at least 30 years. This long retention period is essential for tracking hearing conservation over an employee's career, particularly because hearing loss can be cumulative and may not be immediately evident. By keeping records for this extended duration, employers can help ensure compliance with safety regulations, enable better management of hearing conservation programs, and provide valuable information in the event of disputes related to noise exposure and hearing loss. Retaining audiometric records for 30 years underscores the importance of long-term health monitoring for employees exposed to potentially hazardous noise levels in the workplace.