SS 026-15

Statement of Scope

HEARING AND SPEECH EXAMINING BOARD

Rule No.:

HAS 4

Relating to:

Calibration of audiometric equipment

Rule Type:

Permanent

1. Finding/nature of emergency (Emergency Rule only):

N/A

2. Detailed description of the objective of the proposed rule:

The objective of the proposed rule is to provide specifics regarding the calibration of audiometric equipment.

3. Description of the existing policies relevant to the rule, new policies proposed to be included in the rule, and an analysis of policy alternatives:

The current rule requires the audiometric equipment to be calibrated not less than once every 12 months. This requirement was inserted into the Administrative Code in July 1997. Since that time, technology has changed negating the necessity for modern equipment to be calibrated so frequently. Updating the rule to recognize technological advances will reduce the expense and burden on hearing instrument specialists.

4. Detailed explanation of statutory authority for the rule (including the statutory citation and language):

Section 15.08 (5) (b), Stats. Each examining board shall promulgate rules for its own guidance and for the guidance of the trade or profession to which it pertains, and define and enforce professional conduct and unethical practices not inconsistent with the law relating to the particular trade or profession.

Section 459.085, Stats. Audiometric equipment used in the evaluation of hearing sensitivity for the fitting and sale of hearing aids shall be calibrated periodically, as specified by rule by the examining board.

Section 459.12 (1), Stats. The examining board may make rules not inconsistent with the laws of this state which are necessary to carry out the intent of this chapter.

5. Estimate of amount of time that state employees will spend developing the rule and of other resources necessary to develop the rule:

125 hours

6. List with description of all entities that may be affected by the proposed rule:

Hearing instrument specialists

7. Summary and preliminary comparison with any existing or proposed federal regulation that is intended to address the activities to be regulated by the proposed rule:

None

8. Anticipated economic impact of implementing the rule (note if the rule is likely to have a significant economic impact on small businesses):

None to minimal

Contact Person: Sharon Henes, Administrative Rules Coordinator, [phone]