The term ‘noise’ is also another word for ‘sound’ but generally used when the noise becomes objectionable. Obviously many sounds are pleasant to the ears. It’s when the sound is irritating we call it noise pollution.
Adding to this is that each of us have different sensitivity levels to noise. Even the specific frequency of the sound can affect how we perceive sounds.
In addition, the time and the situation can determine whether or not a sound is to be considered as objectionable noise pollution.
Music, a chirping bird, or even just the wind through the trees though pleasant during the day can become objectionable at night when we are trying to sleep. In the quiet of the night even the slightest noises are amplified.
Another example is when we are trying to focus our thoughts, such as in a library. Everyday sounds can be very distracting and become noise pollution when we are attempting to concentrate.
More than being just irritating, noise pollution can affect our health and well being. Because this is an extensive subject, and a serious side of noise pollution, it will not be addressed here in any detail. If necessary seek out a qualified professional to help if you feel your health is being affected. Do not dismiss the importance of this dark side of noise pollution.
Generally, noise pollution can be attacked two different ways. The first is to identify the source and then reduce or eliminate it. It second is to isolate us from the objectionable noise.
Which method used must be determined on a case by case basis. In some instances, it many require use of both approaches to get satisfactory results.
My preference is always to first try and eliminate the offending noise at the source. When the noise source cannot be removed or reduced to acceptable levels, there is a wealth of products to help, from simple earplugs to noise canceling headphones.
There’s building products designed specifically to eliminate or reduce noise, and even white noise generators which help to mask the offending noise.
Links to some of these products can be found on this site. If you don’t immediately see what you are looking for, a quick search will get you a wealth of ideas and products to check out.
Author: Noise Pollution News (YourGuyJoe) Copyright@July 2008
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