Basic Facts On Industrial Noise Control

By Eugenia Dickerson


Excessive noise in the work place is a common problem that is not just a bother but a health hazard as well. Noisy equipment in the workplace includes vacuum pumps, blowers, compressors, stamping presses and air handling equipment. There are a number of options of industrial noise control that are currently available for use. The choice of method is dependent on the amount of masking that is desired. It is common for two or three of these methods to be used in combination.

One of the commonly employed measures is the use of what are known as sound curtains or blankets. The curtains are fitted on walls or ceilings in the affected areas. Alternatively, the curtains can be used to wrap equipment such as pumps, compressors and other heavy machinery. The advantage of using curtains is that they are easy to work with yet very effective. They make possible for workers to access the noisy environments.

Sound enclosure has been established to be one of the most effective methods of bringing unwanted noise under control. Enclosure is done using several steel panels. These panels are fitted in a manner that permits access to the environment by the worker possible. They also make it possible for fitting of ventilation. The floor is usually left free for other uses. It is possible to request for customised designs from most designers.

Sound barrier walls can be fitted both indoors and outdoors. They are recommended for structures in which using a roofed sound proof system would be impractical or impossible. Materials used are mainly made of steel and include both panels and sheets. Another option that is available is possible for structures that will not allow the use of enclosures is a baffle. Baffles are usually mounted to a ceiling of the affected room and greatly enhance absorption. They are typically used alongside other equipment.

Silencers are another option that one may wish to consider. These are also known as mufflers or attenuators. They are used when the cause of the problem is excessive airflow. They are fitted inside the ductwork or mounted on the equipment itself. Related to the same is the use of composite foam which is also fitted inside the cabinets of machines and other noisy equipment. They are fairly simple to use.

There are numerous solutions that are available. Some improvisation may be required in some cases. Duct lagging is one of the simplest techniques that can be used. This method uses readily available composite materials to wrap noisy pipes and ducts. The wrapping helps prevent transmission of unwanted sounds through the walls of the pipes.

The alternative to modification of equipment and structures is the creation of a quiet room. The quiet room or test enclosure is an important requirement of quality control departments. It helps keep the room free from noise pollution even when no other measures have been undertaken.

Noise pollution causes great discomfort in the work place. It also poses a huge health risk to the people who work in such environments. The affected persons need to have proper protective gear to minimize the risk of suffering from hearing impairment. At the same time, they need to undergo regular medical check-ups to ensure that they are not affected. Measures that have been put in place for industrial noise control should be checked regular to ensure that they are always in a good state.




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