At what decibel level is hearing protection recommended for an 8-hour work period?

Hearing protection is recommended when noise levels reach 85 dB for an 8-hour work period due to the potential for hearing loss. Prolonged exposure to sound levels above this threshold can lead to noise-induced hearing damage. The 85 dB level serves as a critical point where continued exposure increases the risk of auditory harm.

This recommendation is rooted in research from organizations like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which has established regulations to protect workers' hearing in environments with loud noise. Using hearing protection at or above this level helps mitigate the risk of damage that can occur over time, emphasizing the importance of preventative measures in occupational health and safety practices.