What is required to be worn on the ramp when aircraft engines are running?

Wearing hearing protection on the ramp when aircraft engines are running is essential due to the high levels of noise produced by aircraft engines. Prolonged exposure to such noise can lead to hearing loss or damage. Hearing protection helps mitigate these risks by reducing the decibel levels that reach the ears, allowing personnel to work safely around loud operations without suffering from immediate or long-term auditory harm.

This requirement also aligns with safety regulations and practices in the aviation industry, which prioritize the well-being of ground crew members. While other personal protective equipment, like flight gloves, goggles, and helmets, may be useful in specific scenarios, the critical issue when engines are running is the need to protect against noise, making hearing protection a necessary component of ramp safety.