Definitions

Definition - What does Periodic Exposure Monitoring mean?

Periodic exposure monitoring is an evaluation method used to track the exposure to noise in the workplace. Exposure monitoring is conducted in the workplace to determine whether a worker is exposed to average noise levels that exceed safe limits. Once it is determined that a worker is exposed to excessive noise levels in the work environment, periodic monitoring is required to continually update the employer's noise monitoring data. Periodic exposure monitoring is also required when an event occurs that may alter the workplace noise levels, such as the installation of new equipment. Periodic exposure monitoring is often referred to as periodic monitoring.

SureHire explains Periodic Exposure Monitoring

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) hearing conservation program requires that employers monitor their workers' exposure to noise in the workplace. If it is determined that workers are exposed to noise that is equal to or exceeds 85 decibels when averaged over an 8-hour period (8-hour time-weighted average), then the employer must continue to monitor the workplace noise exposure levels. The method used to monitor noise exposure may be determined by the employer. Different monitoring devices may be appropriate for different work setting. Any monitoring program must be designed to detect hazardous noise levels for continuous, intermittent and impulsive noise.

After an initial assessment of a workplace, additional noise monitoring should be conducted on a periodic basis. OSHA requires this monitoring to occur at regular intervals or whenever there is a material change in the workplace that may alter noise levels.