Hearing Conservation

The University of Saskatchewan is committed to prevention, shared accountability, and continuous improvement in managing noise exposure risks. Engineering and administrative controls are prioritized over personal protective equipment, and all individuals are expected to comply with procedures. Education and training are key to fostering awareness and safe behavior, and the program is regularly reviewed to maintain alignment with regulatory and operational requirements. 

This policy applies to all University of Saskatchewan personnel and affiliates who may be exposed to occupational noise levels equal to or exceeding 80 dBA during their duties at any university-operated facility or field location. 

The University of Saskatchewan is committed to implementing a comprehensive Hearing Conservation Plan. This includes hazard identification, noise monitoring, engineering and administrative controls, provision of personal protective equipment, audiometric testing, and training. All noise-related activities shall be managed in accordance with regulatory requirements, CSA standards, and Saskatchewan, Occupational Health and Safety Regulations. 

University Leadership 
Shall provide appropriate resources, facilities, and support for the implementation and enforcement of this policy and the associated Hearing Conservation Program. 

Management and Supervisors 
Must ensure: 

• Workplace noise assessments are completed. 
• Appropriate control measures are implemented. 
• Personnel receive required training and audiometric testing. 
• Hearing protection is available and used correctly.

Faculty, Staff, Students, and Visitors 
Must: 

• Comply with all hearing conservation procedures. 
• Wear hearing protection when required. 
• Participate in training and testing when identified as at-risk. 
• Report noise hazards and concerns. 

Safety Resources 
Responsible for the development, implementation, and oversight of the Hearing Conservation Program, including: 

• Conducting noise assessments. 
• Coordinating training and audiometric testing. 
• Maintaining records and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Provide support in managing audiometric testing, counseling, and environmental controls to reduce occupational noise risks. 

Review and Revision 

This policy shall be reviewed every three years by Safety Resources or sooner if: 

• Legislative or regulatory changes occur, 
• Significant operational changes affect noise exposure, 
• Audit or incident outcomes require program modification.

All members of the University community are expected to comply with the requirements of this policy and all associated protocols. 

Non-compliance may result in disciplinary actions, including: 

• For Students: Measures as outlined under The University of Saskatchewan Act, 1995, the Regulations on Student Academic Misconduct, and the Standard of Student Conduct in Non-Academic Matters. 

• For Employees: Disciplinary actions (up to and including termination) in accordance with The University of Saskatchewan Act, 1995, The Saskatchewan Employment Act, and relevant collective agreements. 

The source of institutional approved definitions is in the Academic and Curricular Nomenclature.

• Academic and Curricular Nomenclature 
  

• The Saskatchewan Employment Act, 2013
  
• The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2020