FAQ
Common questions.
Do I need a hearing conservation program if I only have a small crew?
Size alone doesn't exempt you — what matters is whether your employees' 8-hour average noise exposure reaches 85 decibels. A 10-person shop with loud equipment can need a program just as much as a 500-person plant. The only way to know for sure is to measure it.
What is a SEG?
SEG stands for Similar Exposure Group — a group of employees who do similar work and face similar noise exposure. Monitoring is done by SEG rather than testing every individual separately, which keeps the program accurate without being unworkable.
What happens if OSHA cites me for a noise violation?
Hearing conservation violations can result in real financial penalties and, more importantly, put employees at ongoing risk of permanent hearing damage. Citations typically stem from missing monitoring, incomplete audiometric records, or no written program — all things a proper program documents and prevents.
Can I just run this myself instead of hiring someone?
You can, if you have the equipment, training, and time to do monitoring, testing, training, and recordkeeping correctly every year. Most small and mid-sized employers find it's far more cost-effective to bring in a program that's already built, certified, and reviewed by a CIH and audiologist.
Is the free evaluation really free?
Yes. The initial on-site evaluation carries no cost and no obligation. It's how we figure out your actual exposure and give you a real quote, instead of asking you to commit before you know what you're committing to.
What's the difference between a CIH and a COHC?
A CIH (Certified Industrial Hygienist) is a board-certified professional who reviews exposure and testing data broadly across industrial hygiene. A COHC (Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist) is CAOHC's specific credential for performing hearing conservation testing and running the program day to day. Our program uses both.
Do you serve my state?
Currently serving Colorado, Utah, Idaho, and Arizona, with the deepest coverage along Utah's Wasatch Front. Service areas are expanding — reach out even if you're nearby but not listed.
How much does this cost?
It depends on your employee count, number of Similar Exposure Groups, and travel distance, so there's no single flat price to post. A free on-site evaluation gives you a specific, accurate quote.