The CDC estimates that 22 million workers are exposed to potentially damaging noise at work each year. For employers in manufacturing, construction, and other high-noise industries, a compliant hearing conservation program isn’t optional, it’s an OSHA requirement. Failing to meet it can result in fines up to $16,550 per serious violation in 2025, with willful or repeated violations reaching $165,514 per instance.
Here’s what you need to know to set up a compliant hearing conservation program and protect both your workers and your bottom line.
When a Hearing Conservation Program Is Required
Under OSHA’s Noise Standard, employers must implement a hearing conservation program when employee noise exposures equal or exceed 85 decibels (dBA) as an 8-hour time-weighted average. If you need to raise your voice to speak to someone three feet away, noise levels might already be over 85 dBA.
Common warning signs include ringing or humming in the ears after work, temporary hearing loss following a shift, or the need to shout to communicate with coworkers at arm’s length. These indicators often point to the need for formal noise monitoring and program implementation.
Core Components of a Compliant Hearing Conservation Program
OSHA requires several core elements to maintain a compliant hearing conservation program. These components work together to identify hazardous noise exposure, protect workers, and document compliance.
- Noise Level Monitoring: Employers must regularly measure noise levels in the workplace to identify areas where exposure exceeds safe limits.
- Audiometric Testing: Baseline and annual hearing tests
- Hearing Protection: OSHA mandates that employers provide appropriate hearing protection devices to employees exposed to hazardous noise levels
- Training and Education: Workers must receive training on the effects of noise on hearing, proper use of hearing protection, and the purpose of audiometric testing.
- Recordkeeping: Comprehensive records of noise exposure measurements and audiometric test results must be maintained for compliance documentation.
How Mobile Health Supports Hearing Conservation
Managing a hearing conservation program across a large workforce, or multiple locations, requires coordination, qualified personnel, and reliable recordkeeping. That’s where occupational health services built for scale make a difference.
Mobile Health offers a full range of hearing conservation program services:
- Audiometric testing, including baseline and annual exams
- Hearing protection solutions with assistance selecting appropriate devices for your specific noise environment
- Hearing protection fit testing to verify proper seal and protection levels
- Employee training on hearing conservation requirements and best practices
- Centralized recordkeeping through our Client Portal, with real-time results and compliance tracking across all locations
Mobile Health supports OSHA hearing conservation programs under the guidance of a Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (COHC), providing expert oversight for program design, testing standards, and regulatory alignment. A COHC brings specialized training in audiometric testing protocols, hearing protection fit testing, employee education, and OSHA-required recordkeeping.
Whether you send employees to any of our 6,500+ nationwide clinics or prefer on-site testing at your facility, Mobile Health delivers the flexibility to fit your operations, without sacrificing compliance.
Additional Resources for Employers
To help employers better understand OSHA requirements and program setup, Mobile Health offers a detailed Hearing Conservation Guide. This resource provides a deeper look at compliance requirements, best practices, and common gaps identified during audits, making it a valuable tool for safety leaders and HR teams.
A proactive hearing conservation program protects your employees, keeps your organization compliant, and avoids costly penalties. Contact Mobile Health to learn how we can help you build or streamline your program.
