The acoustic environment in industrial production – an invisible risk with real consequences
Constant industrial noise is a problem thousands of employees face every day. A poor acoustic environment affects not only workers’ health but also their mental well-being. The risks in industrial premises should not be underestimated, especially when the well-being of people exposed to them every day is at stake. For this reason the acoustic design must comply with Bulgarian Ordinance No. 6 of 2005 on noise at work (Directive 2003/10/EC) and ISO 11690, which set the rules for healthy and safe working conditions.
What are the health risks caused by industrial noise?
According to EU-OSHA data, nearly a quarter of workers in the industrial sector in the EU are regularly exposed to noise levels exceeding safe limits. Long-term exposure to noise above 85 decibels increases the risk of hearing loss, high blood pressure, and chronic stress. According to the World Health Organization, these effects can occur even at lower levels, especially with prolonged exposure.
Chronic exposure to noise leads to a number of problems. Increased blood pressure, high cortisol levels, and risk of cardiovascular disease. Cognitive function can also be impaired, leading to lower concentration, increased fatigue, reduced productivity, and attention. This is also a prerequisite for more workplace accidents. High sound levels over time predispose to hearing problems. Industrial noise also affects the mental state of employees. It can have profound emotional and psychological effects—increased stress levels, feelings of dissatisfaction, and even symptoms of anxiety and depression.
How can industrial noise be reduced?
Acoustic design is of paramount importance in mitigating the adverse effects of industrial noise. Good acoustic design ensures that noise is optimally absorbed, reflected, or scattered.
"The most effective noise control solutions in industrial environments are those that address the problem at its source. This is usually achieved through individually designed noise barriers placed directly on the machine," says Alexander Kirechev, founder of Acoustic Force. The company's main focus is on the design and manufacture of noise barriers for various types of machinery and equipment.
"In cases where fencing is not applicable due to the need for technical access, acoustic barriers installed in close proximity to the source are an alternative. When this is not possible either, reverberation treatment is applied using acoustic panels on ceilings and walls. This reduces reflections and the overall noise background," he adds.
Another method that can be used in such cases is the so-called “combined method”: reducing noise at the source, along its path and at the receiver. In other words, quieter machines can be used or existing ones modified; noise can be contained at the source with sound-insulating enclosures and barriers before it reaches employees; and workers can be given personal protective equipment. This is another way to achieve an effective noise control solution.
According to engineer Alexander Kirechev, the design of an acoustic environment in the industrial sector should begin with an analysis of the actual noise sources and the type of noise. The process continues with acoustic measurements of noise pressure at key points in the production area and determination of the frequency characteristics of the noise. This is followed by the creation of an acoustic model that allows different solutions to be simulated and the required sound absorption percentage to be calculated. "The ultimate goal is not only to reduce noise, but to create a safe, efficient, and sustainable working environment that supports the health and productivity of staff," says Eng. Kirechev.
According to engineer Alexander Kirechev, the design of an acoustic environment in the industrial sector should begin with an analysis of the actual sources of noise and the type of noise. The process continues with acoustic measurements of noise pressure at key points in the production area and determination of the frequency characteristics of the noise. An acoustic model is then created, which allows different solutions to be simulated and the required sound absorption percentage to be calculated. "The ultimate goal is not only to reduce noise, but also to create a safe, efficient, and sustainable working environment that supports the health and productivity of staff," says Eng. Kirechev.
