OHST Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT required in a hearing conservation program?

1. Workers must be provided with hearing protection

2. Workers must be trained and retrained annually

3. Given an audiogram within six months

4. Workers must be given time off to protect hearing

The correct answer is: Workers must be given time off to protect hearing

In a hearing conservation program, the primary goal is to prevent hearing loss in workers exposed to high noise levels. The elements that are typically mandated include the provision of hearing protection, training for workers on the risks and the proper use of hearing protection, and regular audiometric testing to monitor their hearing health. While giving workers time off might seem like a supportive measure for protecting hearing, it is not a standard requirement in established hearing conservation programs. Instead, the focus is on implementing controls like the provision of personal protective equipment (hearing protection), offering annual training, and conducting regular audiograms to ensure that any changes in hearing ability are detected early. Therefore, the answer highlighting the absence of a requirement for time off indicates adherence to regulatory standards where specific procedures and protections are prioritized over unused leave benefits.