Why Maritime Employers Should Prioritize Hearing Conservation
Noise exposure is one of the most persistent hazards in maritime environments. From shipyards to docks, the roar of machinery and heavy equipment can easily exceed safe levels. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), workers exposed to noise levels above 85 decibels (dBA) over an eight-hour average are at risk for permanent hearing damage and require protection under a Hearing Conservation Program. For maritime employers, a well-structured hearing conservation program is more than a compliance exercise. It is a proactive investment in worker well-being, productivity, and long-term cost reduction.
The Business Case for Screening
Implementing post-offer, pre-employment hearing screenings provides employers with critical data before workers are exposed to high noise levels. These baseline audiograms establish a reference point for each employee’s hearing health and serve as essential documentation for both regulatory compliance and future claims defense.
Employer benefits include:
-
Verifying workers’ ability to safely perform essential job functions
-
Demonstrating compliance with OSHA’s 29 CFR 1910.95 Hearing Conservation Program
-
Identifying preexisting hearing loss or medical conditions
-
Reducing the costs associated with hearing loss claims
-
Improving retention through better job placement and fit
When implemented properly, these programs lead to measurable reductions in injury rates and improved employee morale.
Benefits for Workers
Hearing conservation programs also help employees maintain their long-term health and career longevity. Workers benefit from:
-
Early detection of potential hearing issues
-
Access to preventive care and education
-
Reduced risk of permanent hearing loss
-
A workplace culture centered on safety and wellness
Studies from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) show that effective programs can reduce occupational hearing loss by up to 50 percent over time when employers implement consistent monitoring and training practices.
Key OSHA Requirements Every Employer Should Know
Employers must take specific actions when workplace noise exceeds safe levels, including baseline and annual audiograms for workers exposed above 85 dBA, maintaining audiograms and noise exposure data for at least 30 years per 29 CFR 1910.1020, and applying administrative and engineering controls when exposure reaches 90 dBA or higher. These measures not only meet OSHA mandates but also create safer, more efficient workplaces that attract and retain skilled workers.
Administrative and Engineering Controls That Work
To reduce exposure levels and protect hearing, employers can combine administrative and engineering strategies.
Administrative controls:
-
Rotate workers between high and low noise areas
-
Post signage for high noise zones
-
Provide mandatory training on proper use of protective equipment
Engineering controls: -
Install mufflers and sound-dampening panels
-
Purchase quieter machinery when available
-
Use enclosed or sound-proofed operator stations
Employers should also work with a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) to verify that personal protective equipment (PPE) meets the appropriate Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) and that employees are trained on proper fit and use.
Going Beyond Compliance
OSHA compliance is the baseline, but leading maritime employers go further. Voluntary initiatives such as ongoing worker education, wellness programs, and proactive monitoring can create a safety culture that extends beyond regulation. Companies that invest in hearing conservation often see lower turnover rates, reduced insurance costs, and improved employee satisfaction.
Conclusion: A Sound Investment in Your Workforce
A hearing conservation program represents a commitment to worker safety, operational excellence, and long-term cost control. As maritime workforces age and exposure risks grow, the ability to prove due diligence through baseline testing and ongoing monitoring will become an even greater strategic advantage.
Download the Full White Paper
For detailed procedures, OSHA references, and implementation steps, download the full white paper: Implementing a Hearing Conservation Program in Maritime Employment (PDF)
Learn how to establish an effective program that protects your workers, reduces claims, and strengthens your organization’s safety culture.
Legal Disclaimer
Views expressed here do not constitute legal advice. The information contained herein is for general guidance of matter only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. Discussion of insurance policy language is descriptive only. Every policy has different policy language. Coverage afforded under any insurance policy issued is subject to individual policy terms and conditions. Please refer to your policy for the actual language.
Courtesy of The American Equity Underwriters, Inc
