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OSHA's permissible noise exposure over an eight-hour day is how many dBA?

90 dBA, with an action level of 85.

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  1. 70 dBA
  2. 90 dBA ✔
  3. 110 dBA

Why: OSHA's limit is 90 dBA averaged over eight hours. At 85 dBA, the action level, employers must start a hearing conservation program and make hearing protectors available.

Huh, didn't know that: NIOSH recommends the stricter 85 dBA limit.

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References

Answer: 90 dBA. OSHA's limit is 90 dBA averaged over eight hours. At 85 dBA, the action level, employers must start a hearing conservation program and make hearing protectors available.

  1. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95 Occupational noise exposure www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.95
    Table G-16 - Permissible Noise Exposures ... Duration per day, hours Sound level dBA slow response 8 90
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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