There are several ways to protect against exposure to excessive noise levels. Engineering controls involve changes in the work area or equipment; administrative controls involve changes in work procedures. Usually one or the other provides sufficient protection. The law requires that these controls be considered before employees are made to wear hearing protection. If engineering and administrative controls are not feasible or will not provide adequate protection, hearing protection devices, training, and audiometry must be provided to employees.
A JSA describes job tasks in step-by-step fashion, identifies associated hazards at each step, and outlines proper hazard controls that minimize the risk of injury or illness to the individual(s) performing that task.
Cal/OSHA inspectors can make unannounced visits to make sure that the Berkeley campus and associated fa- cilities are safe and healthy. Normally, they contact EH&S first by coming to the EH&S main office. If they show up at your workplace without an EH&S escort, call EH&S immediately at 642-3073. EH&S will help ensure the appropriate labor union(s) is/are involved and will provide additional support throughout the process.
