The acoustic environment in industrial production – an invisible risk with real consequences
Constant industrial noise is a problem that thousands of employees face every day. A poor acoustic environment affects not only the health but also the mental well-being of workers. The risks posed by industrial premises should not be underestimated. This is especially true when it comes to the well-being of people who are exposed to them on a daily basis. For this reason, the acoustic system must comply with the regulatory requirements of Bulgarian Regulation No. 6, ISO 11690, and OSHA standards. These regulations define the requirements for creating 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 applied in such cases is the so-called "combined method." It consists of reducing noise at the source, along its path, and at the receiver. In other words, quieter machines can be used, or existing ones can be modified. Sound waves can be absorbed by noise barriers and acoustic barriers before they reach employees. Workers can also be provided with personal protective equipment. This can also be an effective solution for noise insulation.
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.
