WAC 296-817-40020   Review audiograms that indicate a standard threshold shift.  

     You must:

     • Make sure the health care professional supervising audiograms has:

     – A copy of this chapter

     – The baseline audiogram and most recent audiogram of the employee to be evaluated

     – Background noise level records for the testing room

     – Calibration records for the audiometer.

     • Obtain an opinion from the health care professional supervising audiograms as to whether the audiograms indicate possible occupational hearing loss and any recommendations for changes in hearing protection

     • Pay for any clinical audiological evaluation or otological examination required by the reviewer, if:

     – Additional review is necessary to evaluate the cause of hearing loss

     OR

     – If there is indication of a medical condition of the ear caused or aggravated by the wearing of hearing protectors.

     • Inform the employee in writing of the existence of a standard threshold shift within twenty-one calendar days of the determination.

     • Make arrangements for the reviewer to communicate to the employee any suspected medical conditions that are found unrelated to your workplace. This information is confidential and must be handled appropriately.



[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. 03-11-060, § 296-817-40020, filed 5/19/03, effective 8/1/03.]