What is the maximum work time allowed for a noise level of 85 dBA without noise protection?

What is the maximum work time allowed for a noise level of 85 dBA without noise protection?

• A. 6 hours
• B. 4 hours
• C. 12 hours
• D. 8 hours

Answer: (D)

Exposure time to noise is limited by a time-weighted average: higher sound levels mean you can be exposed for shorter periods. With a 3 dB exchange rate (the standard in many occupational guidelines), each 3 dB increase halves the allowable exposure time. At 85 dBA, the allowable exposure without hearing protection is eight hours per day. So the maximum work time in that noise level without protection is eight hours. If you wore protection or the level changed, the allowable time would differ accordingly (for example, higher levels reduce the time further).

Exposure time to noise is limited by a time-weighted average: higher sound levels mean you can be exposed for shorter periods. With a 3 dB exchange rate (the standard in many occupational guidelines), each 3 dB increase halves the allowable exposure time. At 85 dBA, the allowable exposure without hearing protection is eight hours per day. So the maximum work time in that noise level without protection is eight hours. If you wore protection or the level changed, the allowable time would differ accordingly (for example, higher levels reduce the time further).