The first Federal standards for occupational exposure to noise were issued by:

The first Federal standards for occupational exposure to noise were issued by the Department of Labor, specifically through the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This agency is responsible for ensuring safe and healthy working conditions for workers by establishing and enforcing standards. In 1970, the Occupational Safety and Health Act mandated the development of workplace standards, leading to the establishment of permissible noise exposure levels to protect workers' hearing. The standards were grounded in research demonstrating the risks of prolonged exposure to high noise levels, making it imperative for the Department of Labor to take action to protect employees in various industries.

In contrast, the other departments listed have different roles and responsibilities. The Department of Transportation primarily focuses on transportation systems and regulations, the Federal Aviation Administration deals with aviation safety, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development focuses on urban development and housing issues. None of these agencies have the mandate to establish occupational health standards related to noise exposure like the Department of Labor does.