Do employers need to take precautions?

The noise levels in the data center are approximately 91 dB (A).

Do employers need to take precautions?
A . No, anything less than 100 dB (A) is acceptable.
B . There are no regulations regarding noise levels inside a building. Regulations only apply to noise pollution outside of the building.
C . As long as the data is compliant to ISO/IEC 27001 it is acceptable.
D . Yes, since it is mandated by regulations.

View Answer

Answer: D

Explanation:

In a data center with noise levels of 91 dB (A), employers are indeed required to take precautions to protect personnel, as this level exceeds commonly accepted safety thresholds for occupational noise exposure. Regulations, such as those from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or similar agencies, mandate specific controls and protections for environments with high noise levels.

Detailed Explanation

Noise levels above 85 dB (A) typically trigger requirements for hearing conservation programs. At 91 dB (A), steps like providing ear protection, conducting regular noise assessments, and possibly implementing engineering controls to reduce noise should be taken. Extended exposure to such levels can lead to hearing loss, so regulatory compliance ensures both immediate and long-term protection for personnel.

EPI Data Center Specialist References:

EPI guidelines for data center safety address noise exposure as part of the environmental safety measures. EPI recommends adhering to local occupational health regulations, as excessive noise can harm personnel and affect operational efficiency due to potential health hazards.