What additional type of protection may be required when using noisy power tools?

When using noisy power tools, ear protection is essential to safeguard your hearing. Power tools often generate high noise levels that can lead to permanent hearing damage if appropriate precautions are not taken. Ear protection can come in various forms, such as earplugs or earmuffs, designed specifically to reduce the intensity of sound reaching the ear. Prolonged exposure to noise levels above 85 decibels can be harmful, making it critical to use ear protection in work environments where such conditions exist.

While other types of personal protective equipment like respiratory protection, padded gloves, and high-visibility clothing are important for certain hazards, they do not specifically address the risk of hearing damage associated with loud noise. Hence, ear protection is the most relevant form of safety gear to prevent auditory harm when working with noisy power tools.