OSHA requires your employer to provide you with ___________ when you are exposed to loud noises for an extended period.

The correct answer emphasizes the importance of hearing conservation in workplaces where exposure to loud noises is a risk. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) has regulations that mandate employers to take measures to protect their employees from hearing loss due to excessive noise levels. This includes providing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as earplugs and earmuffs that are specifically designed to reduce noise exposure.

Earplugs fit into the ear canal and help block out sound, while earmuffs cover the entire ear and provide a physical barrier to noise. Using both types of protection can significantly decrease the risk of auditory damage in environments where noise levels exceed regulatory limits, ensuring the safety and well-being of workers who might be exposed to harmful sound levels for prolonged periods.

The other options, such as safety goggles, hard hats, and respirators, are important for protection against different types of hazards—like eye injuries, head injuries, or airborne contaminants—but they do not address the specific need for hearing protection in noisy work environments.