Noise pollution refers to the unwanted or disturbing sound that interferes with our daily activities and diminishes our quality of life. Unlike other forms of pollution, such as air or water pollution, noise pollution is often invisible and can go unnoticed. However, constant exposure to loud and persistent sounds can significantly impact our health.
Studies have shown that noise pollution is linked to various health problems, including stress-related illnesses, high blood pressure, hearing loss, sleep disruption, and lost productivity. Still, research has also shown that exposure to constant or high noise levels can cause a wide range of adverse health effects. One of noise pollution’s most common health effects is noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).
Noise pollution can come from various sources, including traffic, construction, industrial activities, and even our neighbors. The constant din of cars, trucks, and buses on the street can make it difficult to relax or sleep at home. Construction projects in the area can also add to the noise level, making it hard to focus or talk.
Recent figures
A 2020 survey by the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) has provided insight into the work of environmental health practitioners (EHPs) in resolving noise complaints in England.
According to the survey, 143,054 noise complaints were recorded by 143 local authorities, equivalent to 61 complaints for every 10,000 people. Residential noise was the primary source of complaints in all regions of England, except in the South East, where noise from construction, commercial, and leisure premises was a more significant source of complaints. Other noise complaints recorded by local authorities include noise from the street, vehicles, machinery and equipment, dogs, agriculture, alarms, military, traffic, aircraft, and railways.
Overall, noise pollution is a growing problem affecting millions worldwide and should not be taken lightly. It’s essential to be aware of the sources of noise pollution in our environment and take steps to protect ourselves from the negative impacts it can have on our health.
So, how can we tackle noise pollution in our communities? Here are a few tips:
- Identify the source of the noise: Determine where the noise is coming from and try to understand the cause. This will help you in finding the most effective solution to the problem.
- Talk to your neighbors: If the noise comes from your neighbors, it’s best to talk to them directly. Explain how the noise affects you and ask if they can make changes to reduce the noise level.
- Contact the local council: If the noise comes from a construction site, industrial activity or a business, it might be a nuisance. Determining what constitutes a nuisance can be challenging. Still, if something is considered unreasonable to the average person, a court may deem it a statutory problem. The Environmental Protection Act 1990 (EPA) includes provisions for addressing noise nuisance under Part III. This law obligates local councils to investigate complaints of noise originating from fixed places like factories, dwellings, shops, pubs and stationary vehicles.
- Use noise-canceling technologies: A variety of products, such as noise-canceling earplugs or headphones, can help block out unwanted noise.
- Plant trees and shrubs: Trees and shrubs can act as natural sound barriers and help to reduce the noise level in your community.
- Insulate your home: Insulating your walls and windows can help to reduce the amount of noise that enters your home.
- Support community-wide initiatives: Get involved in local efforts to reduce noise pollution in your community. This can include supporting legislation or working with community organizations to raise awareness about the problem.
- Keep windows and doors closed: Keep windows and doors closed, especially at night, to reduce the amount of noise that enters your home.
- Use white noise: White noise machines or apps can help to mask unwanted noise and make it easier to sleep or work.
- Seek professional help: If the noise problem persists, consider consulting a noise consultant or acoustical engineer to help find a solution.
With the help of noise-canceling technology, talking to the authorities, and consulting a hearing practice, we can reduce the impact of noise pollution and improve our overall quality of life.
At our hearing practice, we’re all about helping you hear the sounds you want. That’s why we offer a wide range of hearing treatments and devices. Our hearing professionals will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and lifestyle. If you think you have hearing loss, don’t wait until it’s too late; schedule a hearing test today and take the first step towards better hearing.