The average noise level at which hearing protection must be worn is what value?

The average noise level at which hearing protection must be worn is what value?

• A. 85 dB
• B. 90 dB
• C. 95 dB
• D. 100 dB

Answer: (A)

The key idea is how noise exposure is measured over time and when protection is required. Hearing protection is mandated when the average noise level over a typical work shift reaches a level that could cause hearing loss if exposure continues, using the A-weighted scale to reflect how humans hear sounds. That threshold is 85 dB. So when the eight-hour time-weighted average is at or above 85 dB(A), hearing protection must be worn if engineering controls cannot reduce exposure below that level. The A-weighted measure matters because it better matches perceived loudness. The other numbers represent higher levels and aren’t the standard action threshold used to trigger mandatory protection.

The key idea is how noise exposure is measured over time and when protection is required. Hearing protection is mandated when the average noise level over a typical work shift reaches a level that could cause hearing loss if exposure continues, using the A-weighted scale to reflect how humans hear sounds. That threshold is 85 dB. So when the eight-hour time-weighted average is at or above 85 dB(A), hearing protection must be worn if engineering controls cannot reduce exposure below that level. The A-weighted measure matters because it better matches perceived loudness. The other numbers represent higher levels and aren’t the standard action threshold used to trigger mandatory protection.