Sunday, January 5, 2014

Important Facts On Environmental Noise Control

By Eugenia Dickerson


Noise pollution is a major problem in the modern industrialized world. A noisy environment is difficult to work in and possess a health risk as well. Proper environmental noise control is needed to better the acoustic environment. Persons who work in noisy industrial areas should undergo regular medical check-ups to ensure that they have not suffered from hearing impairment.

There are many sources of this type of pollution other than the industrial sources. The commonest causes include architecture, the transport industry and urban planning. Air and road traffic are considered the biggest sources of pollution worldwide. Some sources are fairly easy to bring under control while others are a major challenge.

There are various methods that may be employed indoors or outdoors depending on the source. The available potions can be used for walls, ceilings, floors or exterior walls. The type of material chosen is determined by, among other factors, the function of the structure. Theaters, recording studios and auditoria produce sound that can be easily absorbed by baffles. Sound masking is the active addition of other sounds that help minimise other unwanted sounds.

The planned introduction of hybrid vehicles is set to reduce the level of sound pollution in the streets. This, unfortunately, will take an extremely long time to be realised. It is estimated that at least half of the vehicles have to be replaced on the roads if the pollution is to be controlled. Other ways of controlling the problem include modification of tire tread designs and improving diesel stacks. Speed control is an additional measure that can be undertaken.

As in road traffic management, little has been affected in the aircraft sector, other than elimination of loud engine designs. A promising form of aircraft improvement is flight restriction. This can take the form of departure flight path, preferred runway use and time of day restrictions. This is however questionable because it negatively impacts on flying convenience, aircraft safety and economics.

A variety of materials and finishes can be used to in acoustic walls and ceiling panels. The ideal panels are those that do not interfere with the substrate. To maximise absorption, fabric covers are incorporated. Windows to buildings can be modified in manner that controls sound movement. To prevent sound transmission from outside, thicker or double glazed windows may also be used.

Industrial equipment can be designed in such a manner as to produce minimum noise possible, for the health benefit of workers. Also, special equipment including shock mounting source equipment, solid barriers and ear protection equipment can be used by workers. Office workers can look out for quieter office equipment such as photocopiers and printers as simple solutions for more conventional office environments.

A wisely laid out plan for environmental noise control is crucial in eliminating all areas of pollution. In a nutshell, sound management methods include insulation and absorption, vibration isolation and vibration damping. Sound insulation employs large barriers to prevent transmission of sound. In damping, vibration energy is extracted from the thin sheet and dissipating as heat.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment