CAOHC Hearing Protection Devices 2

Question 1

What are the three main categories of hearing protection devices?

Accepted Answer

Earplugs, earmuffs, and semi-insert (canal cap) devices

Answer

Earplugs, helmets, and face shields

Answer

Active noise canceling headphones, earmuffs, and surgical masks

Answer

Custom earplugs, disposable earplugs, and noise barriers

Question 2

What is the OSHA requirement for hearing protector attenuation adequacy?

Accepted Answer

Protectors must reduce exposure to at least 90 dBA, or 85 dBA for employees with an STS

Answer

All protectors must have an NRR of at least 25 dB

Answer

Protectors must reduce noise to 70 dBA or below

Answer

No specific attenuation standard exists under OSHA

Question 3

What factors should be considered when selecting hearing protectors?

Accepted Answer

Noise level, frequency spectrum, PPE compatibility, communication needs, comfort, and work environment

Answer

Only the highest NRR available

Answer

Price per unit is the sole factor

Answer

Worker preference without any technical evaluation

Question 4

How does temperature and humidity affect hearing protector compliance?

Accepted Answer

Hot and humid conditions increase perspiration under earmuffs, reducing comfort and consistent wear

Answer

Temperature and humidity have no effect

Answer

Cold temperatures cause foam earplugs to provide more attenuation

Answer

Humid conditions improve the seal of all protector types

Question 5

What is the difference between NRR and NRR(SF) ratings?

Accepted Answer

NRR uses trained subjects for testing; NRR(SF) uses naive subjects for more realistic estimates

Answer

They are identical ratings from different manufacturers

Answer

NRR is for earplugs only and SNR is for earmuffs only

Answer

NRR is a US metric while SNR is used only in Asia

Question 6

How should an employer handle an employee who refuses to wear hearing protectors?

Accepted Answer

Enforce through progressive discipline while simultaneously addressing specific concerns about comfort or fit

Answer

Allow the employee to work without protection

Answer

Immediately terminate the employee

Answer

Assign the employee to a different job without requirements