Final answer:
A hearing protection program is recommended at or above 85 dB for 8-hour exposures to prevent hearing damage, including safety measures like hearing tests and providing protection equipment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The recommended level at which a hearing protection program should be mandated is when noise exposure exceeds 85 dB for 8-hour daily exposures without hearing protection. Exceeding this threshold can lead to hearing damage, so workplace safety agencies have instituted guidelines to prevent long-term hearing loss.
These safety programs often include periodic hearing tests, providing hearing protection equipment, such as earplugs or earmuffs, and training on how to minimize noise exposure.