Noise induced hearing loss in the workplace remains high and despite evidence that engineered noise controls (ENCs) hold the most promise for reducing noise exposure for workers, they remain under-utilized. This research aimed to find out why ENCs remain under-utilized, with a goal to develop recommendations and strategies to promote their usage

This study examined barriers to including Engineered Noise Controls (ENCs) in workplace hearing conservation programs. ENCs reduce the noise exposure of workers by stopping noise at the source, and are an effective way to prevent occupational-related hearing loss. The research included interviews with staff and audits of workplace hearing conservation programs in 8 B.C. workplaces in the food and beverage manufacturing sector. Based on the findings, the researchers recommend several ways to promote the adoption of ENCs in workplaces