Chemical substances that are toxic to the structures of the inner ear and can cause hearing loss independently or synergistically with noise exposure. Common ototoxicants include organic solvents (toluene, styrene, xylene), heavy metals (lead, mercury), and certain pharmaceuticals. More than 30 million U.S. workers are exposed to potentially ototoxic chemicals in the workplace. OSHA’s noise standard does not explicitly address ototoxic exposures.
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