Which of the following is a strategy for controlling workplace noise?

The correct answer, engineering controls like sound barriers and mufflers, refers to strategies that are designed to reduce noise at its source or to isolate workers from the noise. These types of controls are proactive measures that can significantly decrease the intensity of noise that employees are exposed to. For instance, adding sound barriers can prevent noise from traveling in certain directions, while mufflers can be installed on machinery to reduce its operational noise.

By implementing such engineering controls, employers can create a safer workplace environment that minimizes the risk of hearing loss and enhances overall employee comfort and productivity. Prioritizing these types of solutions aligns with the hierarchy of controls in occupational health and safety, which advocates for eliminating or reducing hazards at the source rather than relying solely on personal protective equipment or administrative policies that manage the consequences of exposure.

Other strategies, while important, don't address the root cause of the noise as effectively as engineering controls. Personal protective equipment serves as a last line of defense and might be less effective if exposure to noise is excessive. Regular breaks can help manage fatigue caused by noise but do not eliminate the noise itself, and administrative controls such as limiting exposure time provide a temporary solution rather than eliminating the hazard. Therefore, engineering controls are the most effective strategy for controlling workplace noise