What is the significance of a baseline audiogram?

A baseline audiogram holds great significance as it serves as a reference point for future hearing tests. By establishing an individual's hearing ability at the initial assessment, this audiogram allows for the monitoring of any changes in hearing over time. Frequent hearing tests can be compared against the baseline to detect any shifts that may indicate noise-induced hearing loss or other hearing issues. This comparison is crucial for implementing timely interventions, such as hearing conservation strategies or medical evaluations, to protect employee hearing health in potentially hazardous noise environments.

While determining workplace noise levels, evaluating employee productivity, and aiding in the design of a hearing conservation program are important aspects of occupational health, they do not capture the specific role of the baseline audiogram in monitoring an individual's hearing health trajectory.