AIHA University Live Online PDC: Understanding Threats to Hearing From Ototoxicants Exposure

Earn 3.5 Contact Hours

Member $295 | Nonmember $395 | Student $295

Occupational hearing loss has long been recognized as a major hazard for workers exposed to dangerous noise levels. While strategies like engineering controls, administrative measures, and personal protective equipment address noise-induced risks, another lesser-known threat exists—ototoxicants. These chemical agents can damage the inner ear and vestibular system, leading to hearing loss even in the absence of loud noise.

This PDC is designed for OEHS professionals seeking to expand their knowledge of ototoxicants and integrate protective measures into their hearing conservation programs. Participants will:

• Review the anatomy and physiology of the inner ear.
• Explore ototoxicant classes and chemicals.
• Discuss industries and workplaces where ototoxicant exposure is prevalent.
• Examine control measures to mitigate these risks effectively.

Engaging case studies will illustrate the connection between ototoxicants and occupational hearing loss, offering actionable insights for attendees.

Learning Objectives

After this online PDC, participants will be able to:

• Analyze the anatomy of the inner ear and its relationship to hearing loss.
• Identify common ototoxicant classes, chemicals, and their industrial sources.
• Evaluate the mechanisms of hearing loss, including fetal impacts and ototoxicant exposure.
• Develop strategies to adapt hearing conservation programs to account for ototoxic chemical risks.

Schedule (Eastern Time)

• 12:00 PM – Course Starts
  
• TBD – 15-minute Break
• 3:45 PM – Course Concludes

Presenters

Marie Bourgeois, PhD, MPH
Bio coming soon

Thomas Bernard, PhD, CIH, FAIHA
Tom Bernard is a professor in the USF College of Public Health. He has over 35 years experience preparing OHS professionals for a practice-based career. Tom was a member and past chair of the ACGIH Physical Agents Committee. For this service, he was awarded the ACGIH’s William Wagner Award. As the past director of the Sunshine ERC, he appreciates the broad interests and disciplines that lead to improvements in the health and well-being of workers. He will present information on fetal exposures to acoustic energy.

Jason Garcia, PhD, MPH, CIH, CSP, CPH, COHC
Manager for PIKA International, Inc., a United States Department of Defense Contractor. He received his BA in Biology from Florida Gulf Coast University, his MPH from Nova Southeastern University's College of Osteopathic Medicine, and his PhD in Industrial Hygiene from the University of South Florida's College of Public Health. In addition to his academic degrees, he also holds graduate certificates in Safety Management, Toxicology and Risk Assessment, Environmental Health, and Infection Control from the University of South Florida's College of Public Health. As far as professional designations, Jason is a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH), a Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Certified in Public Health (CPH), and a Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (COHC). He has also completed Laser Safety Officer training, Radiation Safety Officer training, and has advanced training in Occupational Ergonomics. Prior to his current role, he worked as a Microbiologist for a major food manufacturer, as an Industrial Hygienist for a major orthopedic manufacturer, and as Industrial Hygienist for a disinfection technology startup company. Jason is also currently a Collaborative Assistant Professor at the University of South Florida's College of Public Health.


**This live event will be administered in our LMS through zoom meeting. Please view our FAQ for additional information.**