AF Form 1671: Detailed Hearing Conservation Data Follow-Up

AF Form 1671: Detailed Hearing Conservation Data Follow-Up – The U.S. Air Force Hearing Conservation Program (HCP) protects Airmen, Guardians, and noise-exposed civilians from occupational noise-induced hearing loss. A key tool in this program is AF Form 1671, officially titled DETAILED HEARING CONSERVATION DATA FOLLOW-UP.

This form documents detailed audiometric follow-up testing when a significant threshold shift (STS) appears in routine hearing tests. It helps track hearing changes, determine next steps, and support decisions about duty status or medical referrals.

What Is AF Form 1671 and Why Is It Important?

AF Form 1671 records results of specialized follow-up audiograms for individuals in the Air Force HCP. The program applies to anyone exposed to hazardous noise levels (typically 85 dBA or higher as an 8-hour time-weighted average), in line with DoD Instruction 6055.12 and AFI 48-127 (Occupational Noise and Hearing Conservation Program).

Key purpose:

  • Document audiometric data at specific intervals after detecting a potential noise-related hearing change.
  • Evaluate whether the shift persists after a noise-free period.
  • Guide actions such as returning to duty, retesting, establishing a new baseline, or referring for further medical evaluation.

The form supports the broader DoD and Air Force effort to prevent permanent hearing loss, maintain operational readiness, and comply with federal occupational safety standards. Early intervention through forms like AF Form 1671 can help preserve hearing and avoid long-term impacts on communication, safety, and quality of life.

Note: The current version of the form is dated JUN 91 (previous editions may still be used). Download the official PDF directly from the Air Force e-Publishing site: https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/af_sg/form/af1671/af1671.pdf.

When Is AF Form 1671 Used?

Routine monitoring audiograms (often recorded on DD Form 2216) compare against a baseline reference audiogram (DD Form 2215). If testing shows a significant threshold shift (STS)—defined on the form as a 15 dB or greater change at any frequency in either ear—the individual typically undergoes additional steps.

AF Form 1671 captures detailed follow-up (DFU) testing, often at 3-month and 6-month intervals after an initial 40-hour noise-free audiogram (NFA). The 40-hour NFA helps distinguish temporary threshold shifts (from recent noise exposure) from permanent changes.

It applies to:

  • Active Duty (1)
  • Reserve (2)
  • National Guard (3)
  • Civilian (4)
  • Other (5) personnel enrolled in the HCP.

The form is not for initial baseline testing or routine annual monitoring—those use DD Forms 2215 and 2216.

How to Complete AF Form 1671: Section-by-Section Breakdown?

The one-page form includes personal data, audiometric results, follow-up actions, and reviewer information. Here’s what each section requires:

1. Personal and Assignment Data

  • Status: Check 1–5 (Active, Reserve, National Guard, Civilian, Other).
  • SSN, Name (Last, First, MI), Sex (1-Male, 2-Female), Date of Birth (YYYYMMDD), Pay Grade (e.g., E-3, GS-4, O-5).
  • AFSC, Mailing Address of Assignment / Location – Place of Work, ZIP Code/APO, Major Command, Duty Phone.

2. Audiometry – Detailed Follow-Up (DFU)

  • Hours Since Last Noise Exposure: Indicate time elapsed (important for interpreting results).
  • Hearing Protection Worn During Exposure: Yes/No.
  • Audiometer Type: 1-Manual, 2-Self-recording (auto), 3-Microprocessor.
  • Audiometric Data Table: Record thresholds (in dB) for both ears at frequencies: 500, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, and 6000 Hz.
    • Mark + = poorer or – = better compared to reference.
    • Indicate Current Audiogram Date, 40 Hour NFA Date, and DFU No. (typically 1 for 3-month, 2 for 6-month follow-up).
  • Significant Threshold Shift (STS): YES or NO. The form notes that a 15 dB or greater shift at any frequency in either ear is considered significant.

3. Follow-Up Actions and Decisions

  • For STS YES:
    • Options include medical referral before further follow-up, removal from noise duty (with remarks), sending copies to the registry, and filing the original in the health record.
    • Consider establishing a new reference audiogram on DD Form 2215 from the interim reference (extracted from the 40-hour audiogram) or another source.
  • For STS NO:
    • Return to duty, retain the form, or schedule retesting.
  • Remarks: Use this section (or reverse side) for additional notes, such as removal from noise duties or other specifications.

4. Examiner and Reviewer Information

  • Examiner details: Name, SSN, AFSC, Office Symbol, Hearing Conservation Certificate No.
  • Reviewer: Name, AFSC, AUTOVON, SSN, Office Symbol (for validation of contents).

Important Tip: The form states that the audiograms above are intended for 3rd and 6th month intervals. Always follow local HCP manager or audiologist guidance for exact timing and routing.

Integration with the Air Force Hearing Conservation Program

AF Form 1671 fits into a larger system that includes:

  • Noise monitoring and engineering controls to reduce exposure.
  • Hearing protection devices (HPDs) with fit-testing (expanded requirements per recent DoDI 6055.12 updates).
  • Education and training on noise hazards.
  • Recordkeeping in systems like the Defense Occupational and Environmental Health Readiness System – Hearing Conservation (DOEHRS-HC).

Data from these forms feeds into the Hearing Conservation Data Registry for program evaluation and trend analysis. Persistent shifts may lead to referral to a Hearing Conservation Diagnostic Center (documented via AF Form 1672) or adjustments to duty profiles per AFI 48-123.

Recent Context: DoD continues emphasizing quantitative hearing protector fit-testing and program effectiveness to minimize hearing loss in high-noise environments like flightlines, maintenance shops, and ranges.

Who Needs AF Form 1671 and Where to Get Help?

  • HCP Managers, audiologists, hearing conservation technicians, and occupational health providers at military treatment facilities (MTFs) primarily use this form.
  • Supervisors and individuals should understand the process to support compliance and early reporting of hearing concerns.

For questions:

  • Contact your local Public Health or Occupational Medicine clinic.
  • Refer to AFI 48-127 and DoDI 6055.12 for program policy.
  • Download the form from the official Air Force e-Publishing link provided above.

Conclusion: Protecting Hearing for Mission Readiness

AF Form 1671 plays a critical role in the Air Force’s proactive approach to hearing conservation. By documenting detailed follow-up data, it enables timely interventions that can prevent permanent hearing loss and keep service members and civilians mission-ready.

If you work in a noise-hazardous environment, stay current with annual audiograms, use proper hearing protection, and report any changes in your hearing promptly. Preserving hearing is essential for effective communication, safety, and long-term health in the U.S. Air Force.

Official Download: AF Form 1671 PDF

Always verify the latest guidance through official Air Force channels or your installation’s Hearing Conservation Program Manager, as policies and procedures may receive periodic updates to align with DoD standards.

This article is for informational purposes and is based on the official form and publicly available DoD/Air Force hearing conservation references. Consult qualified medical or occupational health personnel for specific advice.