If there is excessive noise in the workplace employers should have their employees hearing tested when they first start with the company and annually to determine hearing shift.

Some employers have in-house testing booths while others will utilize a mobile hearing service company who will come to your worksite.

There are noise guidelines for Occupational exposure limits. The Federal noise regulations state steady noise level should not exceed 87dB(A) for a full eight-hour work shift.

The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) recommends a hearing conservation program if:

• a worker is or is likely to be exposed to noise in excess of 80 dBA;
• there is an alteration, renovation or repair of the workplace;
• there is new equipment introduced in the workplace; or
• there is a modification done to a work process that may result in a significant change in exposure to noise.