Noise Regulation And Comfort

An individual can focus more on the task when there are no distractions. The improved focus boosts creativity and productivity. This is why comfortable environment is very important not only for personal relaxation but also to professional productivity.

An important aspect of any comfortable environment is noise regulation. Noise is any unwanted sound.

It doesn't have to be loud. The sound of a dripping faucet at night can keep a man sleepless throughout. The same with the sound of a ticking clock or the buzzing of a fluorescent light. There are even noises that are practically inaudible to the human ear that can cause severe discomfort. These sounds can only be detected using a sound meter.

Noise regulations are intended to provide people with comfortable living and working spaces free from noise. A business operating beside other commercial establishments or residences must comply with these regulations. The failure to comply can lead to business closure.

There are two main methods of controlling noise. One is changing the source of noise. In a fitness gym where weights get dropped often and make loud clanging noises, the metal plates can be replaced by rubber bumper plates that are quieter when dropped. The concrete flooring can also be covered with rubber mats to further reduce noise.

The second method of controlling noise involves the use of barriers to limit the transmission of noise. A good example for this are music studios in which sound within the recording booths are contained by covering walls, ceilings, and floors with sound insulation materials.

Noise Control

Exposure to loud noises can have harmful effects on health. Some example of adverse health effects are constant headaches and nausea. The prolonged exposure to a noisy environment can cause permanent hearing damage. These are just some of the direct effects of loud noises. A noisy environment is very stressful and stress has been linked to various health problems. This is the reason why there are regulations in place that limits the amount of noise generated by any operation.

Much like everything in the world, there are downsides to noise regulations. To certain businesses, these can make it difficult to acquire the needed permits and licenses to operate. A sound meter is used to determine the noise levels. If noise levels are over the limit, noise control measures must be implemented.

There are two ways to control noise. One method revolves around the source of noise. Replacing the old combustion engine with an electric motor is a good example of controlling the source of noise. This method can be expensive. There are cases in which nothing can be done with the source of noise. Such is the case with a fitness gym, in which noise from gym-goers grunting and dropping weights is impossible to stop.

The other method focuses on noise transmission. Going back to the fitness gym as an example, noise can be controlled by lining the walls with noise insulation materials. This  way, all the noises generated are contained within the gym and are not transmitted outside to other offices or buildings.