SafetyQuestion 353 of 360
A plumber uses a jackhammer and concrete saw for hours in a parking garage. What does Cal/OSHA require when noise exposure reaches hazardous levels?
a.Nothing, hearing loss is just part of the trade
b.Only turn the equipment off occasionally
c.Cotton stuffed in the ears is acceptable
d.A hearing conservation program and hearing protection when noise reaches the action level (about 85 dBA over 8 hours)
Explanation
Under Title 8 §5097, when employee noise exposure reaches the action level of about 85 dBA averaged over 8 hours, the employer must implement a hearing conservation program including monitoring, audiometric testing, training, and hearing protectors. Jackhammers and concrete saws easily exceed this. Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent, so earplugs or muffs must be worn, and plain cotton is not adequate protection.
Law Reference: Cal/OSHA Title 8 §5097Practice all 360 questions free — no signup required.
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