What does an industrial hygienist assess in a hearing conservation program?

An industrial hygienist plays a critical role in the assessment of a hearing conservation program by evaluating the workplace environment, focusing specifically on noise levels and potential hazards. This assessment is essential for identifying areas where employees may be exposed to harmful noise levels that could lead to hearing loss.

By measuring noise levels, the industrial hygienist can determine if they exceed permissible exposure limits and assess whether existing control measures are adequate or if additional interventions are needed. They also investigate other environmental factors that could contribute to hearing risk or overall worker safety. This understanding enables the formulation of effective strategies to protect employees, which is a cornerstone of a successful hearing conservation program.