At what decibel level should hearing protection be mandatory in the workplace?

Hearing protection should be mandated in the workplace at a decibel level of 85 dBA due to the recognized risk of hearing loss associated with occupational noise exposure. The threshold of 85 dBA is significant because it is the level at which prolonged exposure can lead to noise-induced hearing loss. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) specifies that when noise exposure exceeds this level, employers are required to implement a hearing conservation program, which includes providing appropriate hearing protection to workers.

This standard is based on research that shows that exposure to sound levels above 85 dBA can damage the hair cells in the cochlea of the inner ear, leading to irreversible hearing loss over time. By making hearing protection mandatory at this level, workplaces can proactively safeguard employees’ hearing health and reduce the incidence of work-related auditory damage.