Regional Program To Protect Mid-Atlantic Workers from Permanent Hearing Loss on High-Level Workplace Noise

By Moon Harper

Nov 28, 2023 11:23 PM EST

Hearing Loss Prevention — (Photo : Unsplash/Mark Paton )

The U.S. Department of Labor announced today that it has renewed its Regional Emphasis Program to concentrate inspections in three mid-Atlantic states and the District of Columbia on industries with high levels of workplace noise, which can contribute to worker hearing loss.

Understanding the Regional Emphasis Program (REP)

A new Regional Emphasis Program (REP) by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) aims to mitigate workplace noise hazards. The program's objectives are to lessen high noise exposure at work and to encourage a safer and healthier work environment for staff members.

The Need to Handle Noise in the Workplace

Noise-induced hearing loss is the primary health concern associated with prolonged exposure to workplace noise. Extended exposure to high noise levels can also raise the risk of accidents due to communication barriers, reduce productivity, and cause stress.

According to National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health estimates, approximately 22 million American workers may be at risk for hearing loss. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 12,000 workers experienced work-related hearing loss in 2021, with 9,700 workers employed in the manufacturing sector.

Lower noise levels are essential for avoiding long-term hearing loss from noise at work. OSHA Regional Administrator Michael Rivera emphasized that by reducing distractions brought on by loud noise, even a slight noise reduction can improve worker safety, communication, and concentration.

Protecting The Workforce

Philadelphia's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has extended the Regional Emphasis Program (REP), launched in 2018, to protect employees in high-noise industries. For five years, employers in the manufacturing sector subject to federal jurisdiction in Delaware, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia will be the specific focus of the renewed program.

Three manufacturing industry sectors were added as part of the program's renewal in October because new data showed a higher risk of noise exposure. These industries include Sawmills, wood preservation, other wood manufacturing, and ornamental and architectural metal products.

The purpose of the updated REP is to remind employers in the manufacturing sector in the designated areas to follow federal safety regulations regarding noise reduction. Small businesses are encouraged by OSHA to take advantage of the free on-site consultation program, which guides safety tactics and adherence to federal safety and health regulations. Inspections and support are being carried out by OSHA area offices in Wilmington, Delaware, Charleston, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania (Allentown, Erie, Harrisburg, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Wilkes Barre).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, when the average noise exposure over eight working hours reaches or exceeds 85 decibels- roughly equivalent to the sound of city traffic or a gas-powered leaf blower- OSHA requires employers to set up a hearing conservation program. OSHA stresses the significance of observing these rules and offers employers guidelines to prevent noise-induced hearing loss.

The Regional Emphasis Program on Workplace Noise, which OSHA launched, is a proactive measure to address a serious occupational health issue. To give their employees a safer and healthier work environment, employers should seize the chance to improve their noise control procedures. Employers prioritizing noise reduction techniques abide by OSHA standards and enhance the workforce's general health and output.