Protecting the hearing of our employees is a top priority at Wayne State University (WSU). Exposure to excessive noise in the workplace can potentially cause permanent hearing loss, and while efforts are made to control occupational noise, certain operations and workstations may still expose staff to significant noise levels. OEHS has established a Hearing Conservation Program (HCP) to help ensure that all WSU employees do not suffer adverse health effects from excessive noise exposure while at work.

Inclusion in this program is a result of noise exposures that equal or exceed a time-weighted average level of 85 decibels (dBA) over an 8-hour workday, or for higher levels of noise exposure over shorter periods. If noise monitoring identifies individuals exposed to these levels, the employee will be included in the HCP to ensure their hearing is protected.

The HCP applies to all WSU employees and outlines the shared responsibilities of both the University and its employees regarding hearing protection. Any employees who suspect they are exposed to high levels of noise in their work environment should promptly reach out to OEHS for evaluation.

More information can be found in the written Hearing Conservation Program.