Are there any OSHA laws regarding the use of shared headsets (earphone/microphone combos)? I work in a call center where there is one headset assigned to a desk, and that headset is used by everyone that sits at that desk. The company does allow us to use our own headsets, that we purchase for $20.
Are there any health laws regarding this? The headsets can get somewhat greasy… not to mention the fear of things like lice. :eek:
Eh, I don’t see “hygiene” addressed. It’s all about making sure you’re not getting too many decibels directly to your eardrums.
http://www.osha.gov/dts/osta/otm/otm_iii/otm_iii_5.html
However, I did find this, but I think it’s specific to the FAA.
http://www.aee.faa.gov/aee-200/ch21.PDF
On page 4, Section 2, paragraph (e), it says that each employee gets his own headset or earmuffs and doesn’t have to share or trade them, but I think it’s just an airport noise protection rule, it’s meant to ensure that everybody working out on the runways has ear protection, and can’t say, “Well, I loaned mine to Bob…” It’s nothing to do with hygiene.
Found some stuff on “shared headsets hygiene”, which just tells you what you already know–sharing headsets is icky.
http://www.callcentrevoice.com/ccv/ccvthread.asp?forumid=4&threadid=1315
http://www.anywhere.tennessee.edu/cyberclass/wherecyberclass.htm
http://www.vocognition.com/custbull3.htm
I’d buy my own.