Hearing Conservation

Hearing Conservation

2025 Awareness Level Training

Purpose

• Hearing Loss Facts
• Hearing Conservation Program
• Noise Monitoring
• Noise Levels at CyrusOne
• Advantages and Disadvantages of Hearing Protection
• Hearing Protection Examples

Hearing Loss Facts

• In the U.S., hearing loss is the 3rd most common chronic physical health condition
• Occupational exposures are the cause of hearing difficulty for 1 in 4 people
• Hearing loss is permanent; can be associated with mental decline and heart problems

Employers must ensure that employees are protected from work related noise exposures

Knowledge Check #1

Hearing Conservation Program

Required when employee’s noise exposures are equal or exceed an 8-hour time weighted average (TWA) of 85 dB

Program Components:

• Noise monitoring
• Implementation of engineering/administrative controls for noise
• Fitting each affected employee with proper hearing protection
• Employee training
• Baseline and annual audiometry

Do We Need A Hearing Conservation Program?

Currently, CyrusOne does not have any locations in which employees are exposed to this 8-hour TWA This training is administered at an awareness level in the event employees would like to voluntarily wear hearing protection

Noise Monitoring

Current voluntary noise monitoring

• EHS is conducting noise monitoring to verify baselines
• Area monitoring with sound level meter
• Personal monitoring with dosimeters
• Data analyzed by Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH)
• No major areas of concern currently found

Noise Levels at CyrusOne

Locations have not tested greater than 85 dB over an 8-hour TWA

• Hearing protection such as ear plugs are typically provided outside of noisy areas for voluntary use
• If you have concern regarding noise exposure, speak with your supervisor

Hearing Protection

Different types of hearing protection for different levels of protection

Disadvantages

• Overprotection
• Discomfort from improper fit
• Maintenance and hygiene

Advantages

• Prevention of hearing loss
• Variety of options for use
• Enhanced comfort when working

Knowledge Check #2

Hearing Protection Examples

Selection of hearing protection is dependent on noise levels, comfort, and duration of exposure

Summary

• Hearing loss is permanent
• Hearing Conservation Program is required when noise exposures are equal or exceed an 8-hour time weighted average (TWA) of 85 dB
• Voluntary noise monitoring of our sites has resulted in no areas of concern
• Currently, CyrusOne does not have any locations above the 85 dB over 8-hour TWA threshold
• Hearing protection may be worn around facilities on a voluntary basis
• Hearing protection must be properly selected, worn, and maintained

Course completed! Please return to Workday Learning and complete the course quiz.

Questions? Please reach out the the EHS Team at EHSTeam@cyrusone.com

Ear Plugs

Fitting

• Roll between fingers into tight cylinder
• Pull ear outward and insert earplug, holding for a few seconds

Care/Maintenance

• Dispose after each use
• Insert with clean hands

Ear Muffs

Fitting

• Position cups to cover ears
• Adjust headband

Care/Maintenance

• Clean regularly
• Inspect for wear
• Store properly