CAOHC Hearing Protection Device Fitting 2

Question 1

What is the Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) and how is it used?

Accepted Answer

A laboratory-tested attenuation rating used with a correction formula to estimate real-world protection

Answer

The actual noise reduction achieved in the workplace under all conditions

Answer

A rating assigned by OSHA inspectors after workplace testing

Answer

The maximum frequency the protector can block

Question 2

When fitting foam earplugs, what is the correct insertion technique?

Accepted Answer

Roll the plug into a thin cylinder, pull the pinna up and back, then insert and hold until expanded

Answer

Simply push the plug directly into the ear canal without compression

Answer

Cut the plug in half and insert only the tip

Answer

Moisten the plug with water before insertion without rolling

Question 3

What factor most commonly causes hearing protectors to provide less attenuation than their NRR indicates?

Accepted Answer

Improper fit and inconsistent wear by the user

Answer

Manufacturing defects in the hearing protector

Answer

Excessive ambient temperature in the workplace

Answer

Using protectors that are less than one year old

Question 4

What advantage do custom-molded earplugs offer over disposable foam plugs?

Accepted Answer

Consistent fit and attenuation due to being shaped to the individual ear canal

Answer

They always provide higher NRR than any foam plug

Answer

They never need replacement or cleaning

Answer

They are required by OSHA for all noise-exposed workers

Question 5

When is dual hearing protection (earplugs plus earmuffs) recommended?

Accepted Answer

When workplace noise exceeds 100 dBA TWA

Answer

For all employees regardless of noise level

Answer

Only during audiometric testing

Answer

When a single protector achieves an NRR above 30

Question 6

What is the purpose of hearing protector fit testing?

Accepted Answer

To measure the actual attenuation an individual achieves with their specific hearing protector

Answer

To verify the manufacturer NRR label is accurate

Answer

To determine if an employee needs audiometric testing

Answer

To calibrate audiometric equipment before testing