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

The three main categories are earplugs (inserted into the ear canal), earmuffs (covering the entire ear), and semi-insert devices (sealed against the canal entrance).

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

OSHA requires attenuation to at least 90 dBA for general HCP participants and to 85 dBA for employees with an STS.

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

Selection requires evaluating noise characteristics, PPE compatibility, communication requirements, comfort, hygiene, durability, and environmental conditions.

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

Hot, humid environments cause increased sweating under earmuff cushions, leading to discomfort and reduced compliance.

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

The NRR uses trained, supervised subjects and tends to overestimate. The NRR(SF) uses naive, unsupervised subjects for more realistic values.

CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation Practice Test

CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation Practice Test

CAOHC Hearing Protection Devices 2