Thursday, November 05, 2009
Association requests lower noise PEL
A hearing loss prevention group on Monday announced it has called on OSHA to lower the permissible exposure limit for occupational noise.
The Westminster, CO-based National Hearing Conservation Association noted in its request (.pdf file) that nearly 22 million American workers are exposed daily to hazardous noise, and NIOSH research indicates the current PEL can lead to noise-induced hearing loss in the long term. The organization also requested OSHA extend its PEL to other industries not currently covered by the regulation, including construction, agriculture and shipbuilding.
The current PEL is 90 dBA and the action level is 85 dBA; NHCA requested each be lowered by 5 dBA.
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