Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST) Practice Test

Which type of equipment is essential to protect workers from noise hazards at a construction site?

1. High-visibility vests

2. Air purifying respirators

3. Hearing protection devices

4. Safety shoes

The correct answer is: Hearing protection devices

Hearing protection devices are essential for safeguarding workers from noise hazards at construction sites because these environments often expose employees to harmful levels of noise, which can lead to hearing loss over time. These devices, including earplugs or earmuffs, function by attenuating the sound levels that reach the ears, ensuring that workers can perform their tasks without risking permanent damage to their hearing. While other types of personal protective equipment, like high-visibility vests and safety shoes, serve important safety roles—enhancing visibility and protection against foot injuries—they do not address noise hazards. Similarly, air purifying respirators are designed primarily to protect against airborne contaminants, making them unsuitable for mitigating noise exposure. Therefore, hearing protection devices are specifically designed and required to combat the risks associated with excessive noise on construction sites.