The USA needs a new national policy for occupational noise

For well over 100 years, American workers have lost their hearing because of occupational noise. Two decades ago, federal agencies estimated that between 9 million and 30 million American workers were exposed on a regular basis to hazardous noise levels in occupational settings. Since then, there have been no major improvements in this situation. Although federal law requires detailed hearing conservation measures and engineering tools are available to reduce noise, many companies simply issue ear plugs. Some U. S. companies reduce noise by purchasing quiet equipment or designing and installing noise control treatments. Management in these companies has recognized its responsibility to provide safe and healthful workplaces. Unfortunately, millions of employees work for companies that either do not share the same sense of responsibility or do not have the technical engineering skills and resources required to solve the problem. An updated National Noise Policy and effective enforcement procedures emphasizing engineering controls are essential to protect the hearing of American workers. This Policy should enable the federal government to form partnerships with industry and assist in the funding and development of engineering solutions and the transfer of technology from federal laboratories, universities, and consultants to equipment manufacturers through the use of demonstration projects and incentive programs.