3M Center for Hearing Conservation

Welcome to the 3M Center for Hearing Conservation

Tools and resources to help employers achieve their hearing conservation program goals

Your hearing conservation program starts here.

Employers are required to provide a “continuing, effective hearing conservation program” for employees who are exposed to hazardous noise, according to U.S. OSHA, but what does that really mean? Whether you are setting up a hearing conservation program for the first time or looking to improve an existing program, 3M can help.

  • The Path to Prevention

    When you’re committed to hearing loss prevention, your employees are more likely to share your dedication and protect their hearing. With world-class, proven detection, protection, communication and validation products, 3M Hearing Solutions is the partner you’ll want with you every step of the way.

3M - Seven Elements of Hearing Conservation

Seven Elements of Hearing Conservation

  • 3M Noise Measurement
    Measure

    Accurate measurement of employee exposure to hazardous noise is essential. Conducting noise surveys using 3M Detection Solutions can help you identify who is at risk, determine who needs to be included in your program and select the proper controls and protective equipment to help reduce the risks.

    Learn About Noise Measurement

  • 3M Noise Control
    Control

    Certain operations and machinery create high noise levels. But do they have to? Equipment and processes can be designed or altered to be quieter, reducing the number of employees in your conservation program.

    Learn About Noise Control

  • 3M Hearing Protectors
    Protect

    Hearing protectors play an important role in hearing conservation. They must be comfortable, fit properly and provide adequate protection for the environment. Compatibility with other PPE and the workers’ ability to communicate must also be considered. Including individual fit testing of earplugs and earmuffs in your program can help you educate your employees on the importance of hearing protection and validate the Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR) achieved by each worker.

    Learn About Hearing Protection

    Hearing Protector Selection

    Hearing Protector Use & Care

  • 3M Hearing Checks
    Check

    Are your employees showing symptoms of noise-induced hearing loss? It’s important to routinely use standardized measurement procedures to check their hearing to detect and record changes, so you can take steps to prevent permanent hearing loss.

    Learn About Hearing Checks

    Audiometric Testing Basics

  • 3M Hearing Conservation Training Programs
    Train

    Because noise-induced hearing loss usually happens gradually and the symptoms are not always apparent, it is vital to educate employees on the effects of exposure to loud noise and train them to properly use hearing protection. You may be able to improve the success of your hearing loss prevention efforts by strengthening worker training and motivation programs.

    Learn About Training Programs

  • 3M Hearing Conservation Recordkeeping
    Record

    Keeping confidential, accurate and up-to-date records of noise surveys, actions taken, instrument calibrations, audiometric tests, attenuation ratings and training helps you manage and audit your program. And helps protect your company and your employees in the long run.

    Learn About Recordkeeping

  • 3M Hearing Conservation Program Evaluation
    Evaluate

    Make sure your hearing conservation program is working with regular program evaluations that include employee feedback, responsibility reviews and cost analysis. This will identify trends, magnify problem areas and drive improvement.

    Learn About Program Evaluations

  • 3M WHS US Center for Hearing Conservation Glossary
    Center for Hearing Conservation Glossary

    To access the full list of Hearing Conservation Key Terms that are covered across the Center for Hearing Conservation, download the 3M Center for Hearing Conservation Glossary.

    Download Glossary (PDF, 369.50 KB)

Highlights of this Center of Expertise
  • 3M Center for Hearing Conservation

    Using the Center

    As you explore the seven elements of occupational hearing conservation you will find information and resources in each of these categories:
     

    • Key Takeaways – Important points on each topic
    • Key Terms – Definitions of concepts and terms used
    • Getting Started – Steps to implementing each of the program elements
    • Requirements – A summary of what employers must do to comply with applicable regulations
    • Beyond the Basics – Ideas for strengthening your program
    • Have You Considered? – Questions to generate discussion about the effectiveness of your program
    • Resources—Links to articles, tools and reference materials

Important Note

This information is based on selected current national requirements. Other country or local requirements may be different. Always consult User Instructions and follow local laws and regulations. This website contains an overview of general information and should not be relied upon to make specific decisions. Reading this information does not certify proficiency in safety and health.  Information is current as of the date of publication, and requirements can change in the future. This information should not be relied upon in isolation, as the content is often accompanied by additional and/or clarifying information. All applicable laws and regulations must be followed.