Noise is part of everyday life in many places, whether on the roads, at construction sites or during events. In the workplace, however, it can become a constant burden, as was the case in our sheet metal parts production facility in Neutraubling. A new noise prevention concept is now reducing this burden in ways that can clearly be heard and felt.
Sheet metal parts are manufactured in Hall 9.7 at the Neutraubling plant. Measurements taken by Occupational Health and Safety revealed that a laser machine was generating excessive noise levels. In the hall, which measures 110 metres by 28 metres by 10 metres, peak noise levels of up to 115 dB(A) were recorded, comparable to a rock concert and already within the threshold of pain for human hearing. In the working area close to the machine, levels of around 88 dB(A) were also measured, roughly equivalent to the noise of a pneumatic drill.
Given these readings, it was clear that something had to change. Excessive noise makes communication more difficult, disrupts concentration and reduces productivity. At the same time, it increases physical strain, triggering the release of stress hormones and causing fatigue to set in more quickly. In the long term, there is a risk of cardiovascular problems and hearing damage. In fact, noise-induced hearing loss is one of the most common occupational diseases in Germany.
Noise levels cut by half
Together with Jaggo Media GmbH, a comprehensive noise preventionconcept was developed incorporating several measures. Among other things, ceiling-mounted absorbers were installed directly above the noise sources, while wall-mounted absorbers were fitted to reduce sound reflections throughout the hall. The materials used meet all industrial requirements, particularly with regard to fire protection and durability.
The results are clearly measurable: reverberation time was reduced from 2.17 to 1.5 seconds. At the same time, noise levels in the working area dropped by around 10 dB. “A reduction of 10 dB is perceived by the human ear as approximately halving the loudness,” explains Thomas Jaggo. Feedback from employees confirms this effect: less noise, less stress, better communication and improved concentration. As a result, work has become not only more pleasant but also safer and healthier in the long term.
Images: Installation of the ceiling and wall-mounted absorbers in the sheet metal parts production facility
