Final answer:
In Washington State, noise exposure should not exceed 85 dB for 8-hour daily exposures without hearing protection. A lawn mower producing 91.0 dB exceeds this limit, indicating potential for hearing damage over prolonged exposure.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Washington State, there are recommendations for noise exposure levels to protect the public's hearing health. Specifically, several government agencies and health-related professional associations advise that noise levels should not exceed 85 dB for 8-hour daily exposures without the use of hearing protection.
Sound intensity levels above this can lead to hearing damage over time. The lawn mower with a noise level of 91.0 dB would be above this recommended exposure limit. When converted to watts per meter squared, it represents a measurable amount of acoustic power that can potentially lead to hearing damage.
It is important that individuals and communities are aware of these recommendations and the risks associated with noise levels exceeding the health guidelines.