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The Hearing Conservation in Noise Course is designed to train individuals to be Occupational Hearing Conservationists (OHCs). The OHC is qualified, upon successful completion of the course, to perform pure-tone air-conduction baseline and annual hearing tests.
OHCs are also trained for other duties associated with implementing an occupational hearing conservation program, such as equipment maintenance and record keeping. Attendees will gain hands-on practical experience with audiometric equipment.
Hearing Conservation in Noise
Course Description
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The 20-hour Course is designed to prepare individuals for national certification as Occupational Hearing Conservationists. Certification is awarded by the Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation (CAOHC) following successful completion of the course (which includes a practical and written exam).
The 8-hour Re-Certification Course is designed for currently certified individuals who need re-certification. Re-certification by CAOHC is required every 5 years. Requirements are met by completing an approved 8-hour Refresher Course and passing a written exam.
Topics Presented
- Effects of noise on people: social and legal ramifications
- Basic anatomy, physiology and diseases of the human ear
- Basic acoustics, noise measurements and monitoring of noise in the work environment
- Federal and State regulations relating to noise and hearing loss
- Pure tone audiometric procedures, recording of test data and record-keeping
- Calibration requirements of test equipment and troubleshooting equipment problems
- Educating employees about hearing conservation
- Selection and fitting of hearing protection devices
Course Objectives
20 Hour Certification Course
- Prepares individuals for certification as Occupational Hearing Conservationists
- Provides supervised, hands-on experience with audiometric equipment and procedures
- Provides a basic understanding of the relationship between the ear, noise and the risk of hearing loss due to noise exposure
- Provides an understanding of the key elements of an effective Hearing Conservation Program
8 Hour Re-Certification Course
Meets CAOHC requirements for re-certification
Reviews the Hearing Conservation Program, provides an update on state and national regulations as well as medical/legal aspects of hearing conservation
Provides an opportunity, through group interaction, to discuss issues and to problem-solve with experienced faculty members
Course Features
Lectures by experienced faculty members
Hands-on, directed, practical experience with commercially-available audiometric equipment
Individuals who successfully complete the 20-hour certification course receive a certificate suitable for display
Instructors
The course is directed by Thomas G. Dolan, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Audiology at Portland State University. Other individuals who participate in the course include:
Judy Struloeff, R.N., Occupational Health Nurse
Mark Bajorek, M.D., Public Health Physician
Lynda Fitzpatrick, M.S., CCC-A, Audiologist
Anne Heassler, M.S., CCC-A, Audiologist
Course Location and Dates
The Hearing Conservation in Noise Course is held at Portland State University in Portland, Oregon. A map will be provided with registration confirmation indicating the course location, meeting rooms, parking and nearby lodging.
2008 Dates
20-Hour (2½ Days) Certification Course
March 19, 20 & 21, 2008
June 18, 19 & 20, 2008
September 17, 18 & 19, 2008
8-Hour Re-Certification Course
March 20, 2008
June 19, 2008
September 18, 2008
Registration
The registration fee includes all lectures, practicum sessions and course materials. Audiometric equipment is provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own.
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