Hang this poster in any shop, lab or work area with loud machines, so everyone can see how long a noise level is allowed and when hearing protection is required.
What is on the poster
When hearing protection is required
At an 8-hour average of 85 dBA or more (the action level), employers must run a hearing conservation program and make hearing protectors available at no cost (OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95(c) and (i)).
Above the limits in the table, feasible engineering or administrative controls must be used first, then hearing protection (29 CFR 1910.95(b)(1)).
Permissible noise exposures (OSHA Table G-16)
| Duration per day (hours) | Sound level (dBA, slow response) |
|---|---|
| 8 | 90 |
| 6 | 92 |
| 4 | 95 |
| 3 | 97 |
| 2 | 100 |
| 1½ | 102 |
| 1 | 105 |
| ½ | 110 |
| ¼ or less | 115 |
Hearing protectors work only if you wear them the whole time you are in the noise.
Built to the Science Safety Teaching Standard
This poster carries the SSTS mark. Like every Science Safety course, it is built to the Science Safety Teaching Standard (SSTS): every rule on it is taken from the body that governs it, at its current edition, and the source is printed on the poster, so you can check it yourself.
Stay current
When you get this poster, it is saved to your Science Safety account. If we revise the poster, or the Hearing Protection module it comes from changes, we will email you, and the latest version will be waiting under Downloads in your account. Every revision carries its revision number and date at the bottom of the poster, so you can tell at a glance whether the copy on your wall is current.
Printing and hanging
- One-page PDF, US letter (8.5 by 11 inches).
- White background, so it prints clearly on any office or classroom printer without using much ink.
- Hang it at the entrance to any shop or room where machines are loud.
- The QR code in the blue title band opens this page, so anyone can get their own copy.
- The QR code at the bottom opens the Hearing Protection module.
Learn more
The Hearing Protection module teaches the full topic this poster comes from.
Sources:
- 29 CFR 1910.95, Occupational noise exposure – Occupational Safety and Health Administration (reviewed September 28, 2026)
- Hearing Protectors – Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (reviewed September 28, 2026)
Poster SSP-0004, Rev. 1, September 2026.
