Subjecting the body to high noise levels could possibly lead to health-related risks. This often happens when one is living or working within proximity of an industrial area. But in some cases, even a residential location may be exposed to unhealthy levels of noise. These could come from equipment that emits an alarming level of sound, such as commercial cooling and heating systems. But how does noise pollution impact the health and wellness of individuals? Also, what solutions are available in the market today to help mitigate these risks?
Impact to Wellness
The ideal noise decibel level should not exceed 85. Sustained exposure beyond this cap may cause a range of health-related issues to the individual. Aside from that, the elevated noise could be a source of discomfort and annoyance for those who work and live in the area. Just imagine hearing a constant flow of vehicles passing by or the drone and whirring of equipment at all times of the day. The noise could be a disruptive factor to one’s daily activities, including sleep and leisure time.
Impact to Health
Hearing impairment or loss is the most common consequence of elevated noise exposure. The effects vary with each individual, but those who work in industrial occupations are prone to develop hearing-related conditions without the appropriate protective gear and acoustic barriers. Aside from stress and hearing loss, studies have shown that noise could also adversely affect worker productivity. In the long run, it could also be a contributory factor to high blood pressure and other health conditions.
Noise Mitigating Solution
While noise issues could potentially disrupt one’s ideal living and working conditions, there are industrial noise control solutions that can be constructed for different types of purposes. Installing a barrier wall with noise absorptive and dampener capacity could be an ideal noise mitigating solution. These flexible walls can be constructed in different locations depending on the requirements of the property owner or the community.
Absorptive vs. Reflective Capacity
There are sound barrier designs that can be set up for industrial complexes to muffle the sound of large machinery. Some are capable of providing a soundproof wall that could reduce sounds coming from the constant flow of road and air transportation along main thoroughfares and airports. Others are designed as a small-scale barrier for residential cooling and heating equipment as well as road traffic noise. Absorptive porous materials are ideally used for these walls. The material produces a mitigating effect that assimilates instead of reflects the loud sound from the source.
When faced with noise level issues, the main concern of property owners, as well as those who run an industrial operation, should be the individuals living or working on the property. While some symptoms take some time to develop, a constant barrage of equipment and transportation noise produces unhealthy effects to the system. By implementing a reliable noise deterrent plan, property owners and managers show their earnestness in maintaining a high standard of work and living conditions for those who occupy the property.