An Analysis of Noise Exposures and Hearing Conservation Program Practices at Company XYZ’s Metal Manufacturing Facility

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine noise exposure and related protective practices within Company XYZ’s metal manufacturing facility. Through area noise sampling and dosimeter-based testing, high noise zones were identified within the Welding and the Machining Departments which pose risks to the respective employees’ auditory as well as emotional health. An analysis of Company XYZ’s hearing conservation program revealed deficiencies in training, enforcement, and documentation which indicates misalignment with OSHA’s Subpart F Occupational Noise Exposure standards. Annual training for employees included in Company XYZ’s hearing conservation program had not been completed. Company XYZ’s management was not ensuring that employees followed hearing conservation program requirements to wear hearing protection devices on the production floor, nor were supervisors and managers following such requirements. Company XYZ’s hearing conservation program identified that training records, audiometric testing, and noise monitoring records would be available to the employees upon request, however none of these documents besides 2023 audiometric tests were onsite. Recommendations to Company XYZ include regular noise monitoring, enhanced training protocols, and managerial reinforcement of protective measures. Areas for future research encompass ongoing noise monitoring, managerial compliance investigation, and the study of combined heat and noise exposure effects. By addressing these challenges holistically, Company XYZ’s ability to integrate regulatory compliance with proactive risk management will advocate for sustainable workplace safety enhancements in its metal manufacturing environment.