What should be provided if noise levels exceed permissible exposures?

When noise levels exceed permissible exposures, the primary response is to provide ear protective devices. This is essential because prolonged exposure to high noise levels can lead to permanent hearing loss or damage. Ear protective devices, such as earmuffs or earplugs, are specifically designed to attenuate sound levels and protect the hearing of individuals working in noisy environments.

Noise-cancelling headphones may help reduce noise but are not typically designed for industrial or heavy-duty noise environments where the noise levels might be extremely high. Quiet rooms, while beneficial for ensuring a reduced noise environment, do not directly protect individuals who are currently exposed to high levels of noise. While periodic breaks in a quieter environment can help reduce overall exposure, they do not provide continuous protection from noise. Therefore, the most effective and standard practice when dealing with excessive noise is to implement ear protective devices as a means of safeguarding hearing health.