At what decibel level should firefighters wear hearing protection according to safety regulations?

Firefighters should wear hearing protection at a decibel level of 90 according to safety regulations. This threshold is set based on research indicating that prolonged exposure to noise levels at or above 85 decibels can lead to hearing loss over time. The increase to 90 decibels is significant because it represents a level at which the risk of hearing damage becomes more pronounced, especially in environments where firefighters often operate, such as during training exercises, emergency responses to structural fires, or near heavy machinery.

Implementing hearing protection at this level helps to prevent long-term auditory issues that can impair a firefighter's safety and communication abilities in critical situations. Thus, adhering to the standard of 90 decibels ensures that firefighters are adequately protected while still performing their essential duties effectively.