Hearing Conservation Program Requirements for NJ Contractors
Breakers, saws and other tools can create high noise levels, and the exposure depends on both sound level and time. OSHA’s construction noise rules are in 29 CFR 1926.52 and 1926.101.
Read the exposure table
Table D-2 in 1926.52 lists permissible exposure durations. For example, it lists 90 dBA for eight hours, 95 dBA for four hours and 100 dBA for two hours. When a worker has more than one exposure level during a day, the standard provides a formula to consider their combined effect.
Use controls and hearing protection
When exposure exceeds the table’s levels, employers must use feasible administrative or engineering controls. If those controls do not reduce noise to the listed levels, hearing protection must be provided and used. Ear devices inserted in the ear must be fitted or individually determined by a competent person. Plain cotton is not an acceptable hearing protector.
What the construction standard says about a program
Section 1926.52(d)(1) calls for a continuing, effective hearing conservation program when sound levels exceed Table D-2. OSHA’s construction noise page describes that threshold as exposure above a 90 dBA time-weighted average. Do not substitute general-industry noise thresholds or assume an 85 dBA action level applies to every construction task without checking which rule governs the work.
Make the written procedure useful
Start with the tools, tasks, duration and controls used by the crew. Explain how exposures will be evaluated, what controls are available, when hearing protection is needed and how workers should use and care for it. Keep the records required by the rules that apply to your operation; 1926.52 does not set out the audiometric testing schedule described in the general-industry noise rule.
Read OSHA’s construction noise standard, hearing protection standard and construction noise guidance. Confirm the rules that apply to your work and any state-plan requirements.
If you need help preparing written safety-program documents for defined work, request a free 30-minute preliminary consultation. Mike will confirm the scope before paid work begins.