Perform OSHA Noise Exposure Inspection using eAuditor

OSHA Noise Exposure refers to workplace standards set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) under 29 CFR 1910.95 to protect workers from hazardous noise levels that can lead to hearing loss or other health issues. These regulations establish permissible noise exposure limits and require employers to implement hearing conservation programs for noisy environments.

Performing an OSHA Noise Exposure Inspection using eAuditor helps ensure compliance with OSHA standards and protects employees from harmful noise levels. Here’s how to effectively conduct the inspection:

Steps to Perform an OSHA Noise Exposure Inspection Using eAuditor

1. Set Up or Download a Checklist

• Use a pre-built OSHA Noise Exposure checklist from eAuditor’s library or create a custom template.
• Include areas to inspect, such as noise monitoring, hearing protection, and employee training.

2. Conduct Noise Level Assessments

• Use a sound level meter or dosimeter to measure noise levels in various workplace areas.
• Document the decibel (dBA) levels in eAuditor for:
  • Workstations with high noise.
  • Areas near machinery or equipment.
• Compare measured levels with OSHA’s 90 dBA PEL and 85 dBA Action Level.

3. Inspect Hearing Protection

• Verify that hearing protection devices (HPDs), such as earplugs or earmuffs, are:
  • Available to employees exposed to noise above 85 dBA.
  • Properly fitted, maintained, and used.
• Document any missing or defective equipment and assign corrective actions.

4. Evaluate Engineering and Administrative Controls

• Check if noise-reduction measures are implemented, such as:
  • Sound barriers or enclosures.
  • Routine maintenance of machinery to reduce noise output.
• Assess administrative controls, like work rotation schedules, to limit individual noise exposure.

5. Review Hearing Conservation Program

• Confirm that a Hearing Conservation Program is in place for employees exposed to noise above the action level.
• Verify the program includes:
  • Annual audiometric testing for affected employees.
  • Regular training on noise hazards and protective measures.
• Document any program deficiencies in eAuditor.

6. Check Training and Communication

• Ensure employees are trained on:
  • The risks of noise exposure.
  • Proper use and maintenance of hearing protection.
• Confirm workers know how to access their noise exposure records and audiometric test results.

7. Assess Recordkeeping

• Verify that noise monitoring data and audiometric test results are maintained and updated as per OSHA requirements.
• Ensure records are accessible for OSHA inspections and employee requests.

8. Document Findings

• Use eAuditor to log all inspection results, including:
  • Measured noise levels.
  • Observations of protective measures and compliance gaps.
  • Photos, videos, and notes for clarity.

9. Assign Corrective Actions

• If deficiencies are identified (e.g., high noise levels, insufficient protection, or lack of training), assign corrective actions to responsible personnel.
• Set deadlines and track progress directly within eAuditor.

10. Generate and Share Reports

• Generate a detailed report summarizing findings, noise levels, corrective actions, and compliance status.
• Share the report with safety managers and stakeholders for follow-up.

11. Schedule Recurring Inspections

• Use eAuditor’s scheduling feature to plan regular noise exposure assessments and hearing conservation reviews.
• Monitor progress and ensure ongoing compliance with OSHA regulations.

By conducting an OSHA Noise Exposure Inspection with eAuditor, you can ensure consistent compliance, safeguard employees’ hearing, and maintain a safe work environment.