NHCA, NIOSH Honor Hearing Conservation Leaders
The first four Safe-in-Sound Excellence in Hearing Loss Prevention Awards™ were presented during the 34th annual conference of the National Hearing Conservation Association, which wrapped up yesterday at the Sheraton Atlanta Hotel in Atlanta, Ga. The awards, co-sponsored by NHCA and NIOSH, honor companies that have shown their dedication to noise-induced hearing loss prevention through excellent practices in the work environment.
"We are pleased to be able to recognize these organizations for their leadership in preventing work-related hearing loss," said NIOSH Acting Director Christine Branche, Ph.D. "NIOSH is constantly looking to elevate the quality of hearing loss prevention programs, and this is an excellent opportunity to share new ideas and best practices to help improve many areas in worker safety and health."
The four winners are Pratt & Whitney's East Hartford Facility, Conn., and Domtar Paper Co., Kingsport Mill, Tenn., both in the Manufacturing Sector; Montgomery County Water Services, an Ohio public agency, in the Services Sector; and Sensaphonics Hearing Conservation, Inc. (Chicago), which received the Innovation in Hearing Loss Prevention award.
Pratt & Whitney was recognized for its comprehensive approach to hearing protection, while Domtar Paper was honored for extending its hearing loss prevention program to recreational and community activities of its workers' families. Montgomery County Water Services was recognized for going well beyond minimal regulatory requirements with a comprehensive approach and active involvement of the workforce. Sensaphonics, which makes custom in ear personal monitors and ear plugs, was recognized for being a pioneer in combining products, audiology services, and education and for a culture of innovation and educational outreach.
Nominations for the next awards are due by Aug. 1, 2009. Visit www.safeinsound.us for information.