What action should leaders take to minimize soldiers' noise exposure?

Providing personal protective devices is essential for minimizing soldiers' noise exposure because these devices, such as earmuffs or earplugs, are specifically designed to reduce the volume of sound that reaches the ears. When soldiers are exposed to loud environments, especially during training or combat scenarios, prolonged exposure can lead to permanent hearing damage or loss.

By utilizing personal protective devices, leaders create a proactive approach to hearing conservation, ensuring that soldiers have the means to protect their auditory health while still being able to perform their duties effectively. This action not only enhances individual safety but also maintains operational readiness by preserving soldiers' hearing capabilities.

In contrast, other options like conducting training without hearing protectors, using loudspeakers, or limiting training duration do not provide the same level of protection. They may inadvertently increase exposure to harmful noise or fail to adequately address the inherent risks of noise in military operations.