How should excessive noise be managed on the ramp?

Wearing hearing protection devices is an essential strategy for managing excessive noise on the ramp, particularly given the high levels of sound generated by aircraft and ground equipment. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as earplugs or earmuffs, significantly reduces the risk of noise-induced hearing loss, which is a common concern in noisy environments like an airport ramp.

The emphasis on hearing protection is particularly important because personnel who work on the ramp are frequently exposed to the intense sounds of jet engines and heavy machinery. Implementing this practice helps ensure that workers can perform their duties safely while minimizing long-term health risks associated with chronic noise exposure.

Other approaches, such as reducing the number of aircraft operating, may help decrease overall noise but might not be feasible or practical in many situations. Creating designated quiet zones could provide a temporary relief from noise but wouldn’t address the need for protection during active operations. Using louder signaling methods would, contrary to the goal of managing noise, increase noise levels and potentially complicate communication among ground personnel. Thus, the most effective and immediate way to safeguard against excessive noise is through personal hearing protection devices.