Hazard Prevention and Control Programmes

Noise-induced hearing loss is, at present, incurable and irreversible, however, it is definitely preventable, therefore the implementation of adequate preventive programmes is essential. Specific measures for the prevention and control of exposure to noise are discussed in detail elsewhere in this document; however, it is important to keep in mind that such measures should not be implemented in an ad hoc manner but as part of a comprehensive strategy. The objective of this chapter is to discuss basic principles for hazard prevention and control programmes and their management, relating them to the prevention of noise exposure and associated effects, whenever relevant. A programme to protect workers from the effects of hazardous noise exposure in the workplace is often called a “hearing conservation programme”. However, rather than an isolated effort, this should preferably be integrated into the overall hazard prevention and control programme of the workplace in question. Hazard prevention and control programmes should be designed to meet the specific needs of each situation, in view of the existing hazards and of the many other factors that characterize a workplace; furthermore, programmes should be adaptable to new scientific and technological developments, as well as to eventual changes in the socio-economic context. As previously seen, noise control programmes are often mentioned or defined by national legislation or international standardization. For example, the ISO 11690-1 states that: