Noise, often described as ‘unwanted or disturbing sound,’ impacts our health, well-being, and productivity in the buildings where we live, work, and learn.
What is noise?
Sources of noise range from outdoor traffic, airplanes, and construction to indoor mechanical systems and occupant conversations. While most people know that loud noise can lead to hearing loss, exposure to moderate but persistent noise (above 55 dBA) can also contribute to chronic health problems.
For example, it is estimated that 145.5 million Americans are regularly exposed to noise levels linked to an increased risk of hypertension.
How does noise affect our health?
The health effects of noise exposure extend beyond hearing.
Noise can disrupt normal bodily functions, increase blood pressure, alter heart rate, and trigger stress responses by increasing stress hormones like adrenaline.
In children, exposure to ambient noise has been associated with behavioral problems, higher stress levels, and even impaired cognitive performance at school. The impact on children’s learning is particularly concerning: studies have shown that noise from sources such as nearby airplanes can reduce children’s reading comprehension, memory, and concentration, thereby hindering their overall development.
For adults, nighttime noise can disrupt sleep, which in turn increases the risk of cardiovascular problems; daytime noise, particularly from road traffic, has been associated with higher mortality due to hypertension and an increased risk of diabetes and obesity.
Workplace noise is also a significant concern. In open-plan offices, ambient noise can distract employees, impacting their performance and job satisfaction.
More than 53% of employees report that background noise decreases their productivity, highlighting the need for effective noise management in modern office designs.
What can we do?
To reduce noise exposure, design improvements and building layout, soundproofing measures, and effective insulation can help manage noise levels.
Implement silent HVAC systems and optimize acoustic design.
Creating designated quiet zones can significantly improve well-being, productivity, and learning outcomes, making buildings healthier for all occupants.
@CAMPUS CONTERN is:
- Each of our buildings is equipped with a silent HVAC system
- All floors are ready for acoustic partitions: each office has an acoustic barrier to ensure privacy and reduce ambient noise
- Our buildings are away from high-traffic or work areas, ensuring a quiet environment
- All our shared workspaces feature additional sound-absorbing ceilings or partitions to minimize potential disturbances from large common areas
- All tenants have ‘quiet activities’ without noisy machinery or equipment.
Our Goal:
- To ensure our tenants benefit from a healthy and safe work environment. They spend a lot of time in our buildings, and it is our responsibility to do our best to reduce the causes of fatigue and absenteeism, and to promote concentration and performance.
- To protect our tenants from chronic diseases and play our part in the National Health Plan.
Source: “The 9 Foundations of a Healthy Building” Harvard School of Public Health – forhealth.org