Name an engineering control that reduces noise exposure in a workspace.

• A. Acoustic Enclosures
• B. Earmuffs
• C. Job Rotation
• D. Administrative Controls

Answer: (A)

Engineered controls reduce worker exposure by changing the environment or equipment to cut the noise at the source or along its path. Acoustic enclosures are a classic example: they surround or enclose noisy machinery, absorbing and containing the sound so that less noise reaches workers. This makes the workplace quieter without relying on workers to wear protective gear or to alter how they work.

Earmuffs, by contrast, are personal protective equipment worn by individuals, not a modification to the environment. Job rotation is an administrative control that reduces exposure by limiting time spent near the noise, rather than reducing the noise itself. Administrative controls also include scheduling or training changes.

So, acoustic enclosures best fit the idea of an engineering control because they physically reduce noise levels in the workspace, providing a continuous barrier regardless of worker behavior.