What is the permissible exposure limit for noise during an 8-hour workday?

The permissible exposure limit for noise during an 8-hour workday is 90 dBA. This threshold is determined by OSHA to help protect workers from the hazardous effects of noise exposure, which can lead to hearing loss and other health issues.

At 90 dBA, workers are allowed to be exposed for the full duration of an 8-hour shift. The limit is set based on research showing that exposure to sound levels at or above this level can cause significant auditory damage and loss over time. Regular monitoring and hearing conservation programs are often implemented in environments where noise levels approach or exceed this limit to ensure that workers' hearing is not compromised.

It is important to note that the limits change for higher decibel levels; for example, as noise levels increase, the allowable exposure time decreases. This reinforces the rationale behind the 90 dBA limit, providing a balance between work requirements and health safety.