What does STS stand for in the context of hearing conservation?

In the context of hearing conservation, STS stands for Significant Threshold Shifts. This term refers to a notable change in an individual's hearing sensitivity, typically measured through audiometric testing. A significant threshold shift indicates that a person's hearing has worsened by a defined amount, often quantified in decibels at specific frequencies.

Recognizing STS is essential in hearing conservation programs because it allows for the early detection of potential hearing loss among individuals exposed to hazardous noise levels. Identifying these shifts triggers necessary interventions, such as additional monitoring, engineering controls, education about the risks of noise exposure, or the use of hearing protection devices.

Understanding STS is critical for implementing effective hearing conservation strategies, ensuring that workers are protected from further auditory damage and maintaining safe hearing levels in noise-exposed environments.