BNSF News

Did You Hear That?

2009-12-10

Can you hear the footsteps of a stirring mouse?

Maybe not, but good hearing is critical for communicating on the job, at home and at play.

"Noise is all around us. However, the good news is noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is preventable if you take the necessary action and individual responsibility to protect yourself from noise in every environment," said Sheryl Whiteman, BNSF manager, Occupational Audiology.

The Hearing Conservation Program at BNSF includes hearing testing, education about hearing loss prevention, a wide variety of hearing protection and much more. Participation in the Hearing Conservation Program at BNSF is encouraged for all employees and required for specific crafts as mandated by federal regulations.

Mobile Medical Services is available at many terminals and gang start-ups. These vans are a convenient way to receive a hearing test along with other tests (vision screening and respirator fit testing) that may be necessary for your specific craft. To access the 2010 Mobile Medical schedule, please check with your supervisor or director of administration. You may also refer to the general posting at your location or look on the BNSF intranet under Departments > Medical > Industrial Hygiene for the van schedule and a wealth of information about the BNSF Hearing Conservation Program. BNSF offers a wide variety of hearing protection for use at work. Employees are also encouraged to take hearing protection home for noisy activities off the job.

For 2010, make your resolution to protect your hearing at work, home and play. You never know, you may be able to hear that mouse after all!

BNSF Headquarters

For more information on the company and its transportation solutions, visit the BNSF Web site at www.bnsf.com