What type of protection should be worn in a noisy environment?

In a noisy environment, wearing ear plugs or muffs is essential for protecting hearing. Prolonged exposure to loud noise can lead to hearing loss or other auditory issues, making it crucial to use personal protective equipment designed specifically for sound attenuation. Ear plugs fit within the ear canal and reduce the amount of noise that reaches the inner ear, while ear muffs cover the entire outer ear and provide a higher level of sound reduction. Choosing the appropriate type of hearing protection depends on the noise level and duration of exposure, but both options effectively minimize the risk of noise-induced hearing damage.

The other options do not provide any auditory protection. Hats are designed for protection from weather elements rather than sound, while sunglasses offer eye protection but do not address noise at all. Thus, in a noisy environment, ear plugs or muffs are the most suitable choice to ensure safety and preserve hearing health.