What sound exposure level is considered too high for pregnant workers?

What sound exposure level is considered too high for pregnant workers?

• A. LeqT of 110 dB(C) or peak 150 dB(C)
• B. LeqT of 115 dB(C) or a peak exposure of 155 dB(C)
• C. LeqT of 120 dB(C) or peak 160 dB(C)
• D. LeqT of 105 dB(C) and peak 145 dB(C)

Answer: (B)

Protecting a pregnant worker from excessive noise involves limiting both the average energy of the noise over a shift and the highest instantaneous peak. The level considered too high is a time-weighted average of 115 dB(C) or a peak exposure of 155 dB(C). This combination serves as a conservative threshold to minimize potential risks to fetal development from loud or impulsive sounds. Exposures below this limit (for example, LeqT around 110 dB(C) with a peak near 150 dB(C)) are not considered too high, while exposures above it (such as a LeqT of 120 dB(C) or a peak of 160 dB(C)) would exceed the limit and require controls or accommodations.

Protecting a pregnant worker from excessive noise involves limiting both the average energy of the noise over a shift and the highest instantaneous peak. The level considered too high is a time-weighted average of 115 dB(C) or a peak exposure of 155 dB(C). This combination serves as a conservative threshold to minimize potential risks to fetal development from loud or impulsive sounds. Exposures below this limit (for example, LeqT around 110 dB(C) with a peak near 150 dB(C)) are not considered too high, while exposures above it (such as a LeqT of 120 dB(C) or a peak of 160 dB(C)) would exceed the limit and require controls or accommodations.