What are earplugs designed to protect against during metal cutting operations?

Earplugs are specifically designed to protect against hearing damage, particularly in environments with high noise levels, such as metal cutting operations. These settings often involve the use of powerful machines and tools that generate significant sound, which can lead to permanent hearing loss if proper precautions are not taken.

By using earplugs, workers can significantly reduce the intensity of sound that reaches their ears, thereby minimizing the risk of auditory damage. It’s crucial for workers to maintain their hearing health, especially in industries where noise is a constant factor. The use of earplugs in these situations exemplifies an important aspect of personal protective equipment (PPE) that focuses on safeguarding an employee's long-term well-being.

The other options refer to different types of risks present in the workplace, such as physical injuries or exposure to chemicals, but they do not relate to the specific protective function of earplugs.