Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) Safety Assessment Practice Test

What is the permissible noise level set by OSHA for an eight-hour period?

1. 60 decibels

2. 40 decibels

3. 90 decibels

4. 120 decibels

The correct answer is: 90 decibels

The permissible noise level set by OSHA for an eight-hour work period is 90 decibels. This standard is established to protect workers' hearing from the risks of prolonged exposure to high noise levels in the workplace. When noise levels exceed this threshold, there is an increased risk of hearing damage over time. OSHA's regulation emphasizes monitoring and controlling noise levels in industrial environments to ensure that workers do not exceed this permissible exposure limit. If the noise level reaches or exceeds 90 decibels, employers are generally required to implement a hearing conservation program, which includes providing hearing protection and regular hearing tests for employees. This standard reflects the understanding that consistent exposure to louder sounds can result in irreversible hearing loss, making it crucial for workplaces to adhere to these limits for the safety and well-being of employees. In contrast, the other levels mentioned, like 60, 40, and 120 decibels, are either too low or too high in the context of the OSHA regulations for an eight-hour exposure limit.