Noise

Noise Research Program on Hangar Apron - GPN-2000-001457

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20230609 Average noise levels outside US homes

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Система производственного контроля эффективности СИЗ органа слуха

Noise refers to unwanted or harmful sound that can interfere with communication, harm hearing, and disrupt daily activities. It is a common environmental pollutant with various sources, including transportation systems (like road traffic, aircraft, and trains), industrial operations, construction activities, and neighborhood noise (such as loud music and barking dogs). Noise pollution has been linked to a range of health issues, including hearing loss, stress, sleep disturbances, and cardiovascular diseases. Understanding and controlling noise is crucial for public health and well-being.

Types of Noise

Noise can be categorized in several ways, including by its source, nature, and impact on health.

By Source

• Environmental noise: This encompasses outdoor sounds generated by transport, industrial, and recreational activities.
• Occupational noise: Noise present in the workplace, which can lead to noise-induced hearing loss among workers.
• Neighbourhood noise: Includes domestic noises, animal noises, and sounds from local businesses.

By Nature

• Continuous noise: A constant sound, typically produced by machinery or air conditioning units.
• Intermittent noise: Sound that starts and stops, such as noise from construction activities.
• Impulse noise: A short burst of sound, like a gunshot or an explosion, which can be immediately harmful to hearing.

By Impact

• Hearing loss: Prolonged exposure to high levels of noise can cause permanent damage to the auditory system.
• Psychological effects: Noise can lead to stress, annoyance, and sleep disturbances.
• Cardiovascular effects: Chronic noise exposure is associated with increased risks of heart disease.

Measurement and Control

Noise is measured in decibels (dB), a logarithmic unit that describes the intensity of a sound. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends keeping noise levels below 70 dB to prevent hearing loss, with nighttime noise levels not exceeding 55 dB to avoid sleep disturbances.

Effective noise control strategies include:

• Engineering controls: Designing quieter machinery and using sound barriers.
• Administrative controls: Implementing policies to limit exposure time to noisy environments.
• Personal protective equipment: Using earplugs or earmuffs in high-noise areas.

Regulation and Policy

Many countries have established regulations to manage noise pollution. These may include setting noise limits for different zones (residential, commercial, industrial) and times of day, and requiring environmental impact assessments for large projects that could increase noise levels.

See Also

• Sound pollution
• Acoustics
• Environmental health
• Public health