Acoustics and Noise in the Workplace
Prevent hearing loss and improve concentration
Poor acoustics or excessive noise in the workplace can lead to serious problems such as fatigue, lack of concentration, and permanent hearing loss. However, it can be difficult to assess the actual noise level at work, since we quickly get used to the noise level – especially when it is constant.
All organisations regularly purchase new equipment and refurbish their premises. By considering functionality and the working environment as early as possible in these processes, you can prevent acoustic and noise-related issues and avoid costly quick fixes later on.
Are you concerned about excessive noise in your workplace?
If you suspect that you or your colleagues are exposed to more than 80 dB, it is a legal requirement to carry out a noise assessment. Noise surveys are also mandatory if there is disturbing noise or significant changes in your workplace, such as the installation of new machinery.
Reduce noise and promote wellbeing with a proactive approach
Noise issues are intensified by poor acoustics, but often, all or part of the problem can be solved with improved sound absorption. In some cases, it is not possible to reduce noise levels below 80 dB. In these instances, it is a legal requirement to provide employees with hearing protection and access to hearing tests. In open plan offices, noise often originates from human activity. In such cases, noise can be reduced by organising work differently and being aware of your internal culture – such as phone calls, knowledge sharing, or everyday conversations.
1 in 10 employed Danes has hearing difficulties, and around 50,000 Danes have such significant hearing loss that it affects their ability to remain in employment.
Do you work in a profession with high noise exposure?
Did you consider noise levels when you chose your career? Perhaps not. However, employees in industries such as manufacturing, construction, childcare workers and people in the music industry have one thing in common: during a typical working day, they are exposed to such high levels of noise that it can potentially damage their hearing.
With our noise barometer, you can see the average noise exposure across a typical 8-hour working day in selected professions.
If your profession falls into the red or yellow zones on the barometer, it is vital that your employer pays attention to how your workday is organised, in order to protect your hearing as much as possible.
To put it bluntly: it is a choice between wearing hearing protection now or needing a hearing aid later. Hearing loss is unfortunately among the most reported occupational diseases, ranking in the top five recognised occupational injuries, so you have every reason to protect your hearing.
Get a hearing test
Human House offers workplace hearing tests for employees exposed to noise levels above 80 dB or peak noise over 135 dB.
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