What is the maximum work time allowed for a noise level of 94 dBA without noise protection?

What is the maximum work time allowed for a noise level of 94 dBA without noise protection?

• A. 2 hours
• B. 30 minutes
• C. 2.5 hours
• D. 1 hour

Answer: (D)

The concept being tested is how long you can be exposed to a given noise level without protection, using a specific exposure standard and its exchange rate. Under the NIOSH recommended exposure limit, 85 dBA is permissible for 8 hours, and for every 3 dB increase, the allowable time halves (3 dB exchange rate). From 85 dBA, add 3 dB steps: 88 dBA corresponds to 4 hours, 91 dBA to 2 hours, and 94 dBA to 1 hour. Therefore, the maximum work time without noise protection at 94 dBA is 1 hour.

The concept being tested is how long you can be exposed to a given noise level without protection, using a specific exposure standard and its exchange rate. Under the NIOSH recommended exposure limit, 85 dBA is permissible for 8 hours, and for every 3 dB increase, the allowable time halves (3 dB exchange rate).

From 85 dBA, add 3 dB steps: 88 dBA corresponds to 4 hours, 91 dBA to 2 hours, and 94 dBA to 1 hour. Therefore, the maximum work time without noise protection at 94 dBA is 1 hour.