The instructor should provide safe and approved hearing protection if the noise level exceeds what decibel level?

In order to ensure the safety and health of students in a training environment, instructors should provide hearing protection when the noise level exceeds 90 decibels in the U.S. This guideline is based on recommendations from organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which recognizes that prolonged exposure to noise levels above this threshold can lead to permanent hearing loss. The distinction for Canada, where the threshold is set at 85 decibels, underscores the importance of having a standard for occupational noise exposure to protect individuals from the risks associated with high decibel levels.

By selecting 90 decibels as the correct level for the U.S., it aligns with established safety practices, thereby promoting a safer learning environment where students can focus on their training without the detrimental effects of excessive noise on their hearing.