Understanding Industrial Noise Pollution

The challenge of mitigating industrial noise is paramount in various industries such as wind farms, production plants, and substations. Engineers, architects, and contractors involved in creating and maintaining these facilities must grapple with the adverse effects of noise pollution and comply with industry regulations.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets permissible exposure limits (PEL) standards to protect workers from excessive noise. OSHA’s PEL for noise is 90 decibels over an 8-hour workday. If you want to manage noise levels on your production floor better, look no further than the solutions provided by Sound Fighter Systems. We are pioneers in our industry, providing effective absorptive outdoor barriers for over four decades.

In this guide, we’ll cover the basics of industrial noise control, its importance, the various types of noise encountered in industrial settings, and the general methods employed to address this critical issue.

Why Industrial Noise Control Matters

Excessive noise in industrial environments can threaten workers’ well-being and also contribute to environmental noise pollution. In industrial and manufacturing environments effective noise control becomes necessary to maintain a harmonious balance between production and environmental noise pollution responsibility.

Here are a few important factors that site managers need to consider:

1. Regulatory Compliance

Adherence to local, state, and federal noise regulations is essential for project managers. Failure to comply can result in legal consequences, fines, and potential project delays.

2. Community Relations

Excessive industrial noise can lead to community complaints and strained relations. Project managers must prioritize noise control to maintain a positive image and minimize potential conflicts with nearby residents.

3. Productivity and Efficiency

Uncontrolled noise can negatively impact worker concentration and communication, leading to a decrease in productivity and efficiency. Project managers can create a more conducive work environment by implementing noise control measures.

4. Avoiding Litigation

Noise-related complaints from workers or neighboring communities can lead to legal action. Project managers can mitigate the risk of litigation by proactively addressing noise concerns and implementing effective control measures.

Regulatory Landscape in the USA

• OSHA Standards: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets standards for occupational noise exposure. Project managers must comply with these standards to ensure the health and safety of workers.
• Local Noise Ordinances: Many municipalities have specific noise ordinances that dictate acceptable noise levels.
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Guidelines: The EPA provides guidelines for noise emissions from various sources. Projects subject to EPA regulations must comply with these guidelines to address environmental concerns.

Types of Noise in Industrial Settings

Here are some of the sources of noise in industrial settings, along with their characteristics:

Machinery Noise

Source Heavy machinery, turbines, generators, and other mechanical equipment used in industrial processes generate machinery noise.

Characteristics Low-frequency hums, vibrations, and intermittent high-pitched sounds can emanate from rotating equipment. The specific frequencies vary depending on the type and size of machinery.

 

Mechanical Vibrations

Source Vibrations from equipment, rotating machinery, or structural components can contribute to noise in the form of low-frequency rumblings.

Characteristics The characteristics of mechanical vibrations can vary widely, depending on the source. Common sources include unbalanced rotating equipment or machinery with poor alignment.

 

Electrical Equipment Noise

Source Various electrical equipment, such as switchgear, circuit breakers, and electrical panels, can contribute to noise in industrial settings.

Characteristics Electrical equipment noise can manifest as high-frequency whines, clicks, or pops, depending on the specific operation of each device.

Methods of Controlling Industrial Noise

Industrial noise control methods can be broadly categorized into two types:

• Reflective solutions
• Absorptive materials

Reflective materials like concrete have been conventionally used for sound barrier walls, but advancements in absorptive materials have revolutionized the efficacy of noise reduction. Sound Fighter Systems, a leader in industrial noise control, offers a superior alternative to traditional reflective products.

Here are several effective approaches for industrial noise control:

• Machinery Noise: Implement vibration isolation techniques, enclosing machinery in soundproof enclosures, and using advanced materials to dampen vibrations can effectively control machinery noise.
• Mechanical Vibrations: Implement precision machinery alignment, using vibration isolation mounts and conducting regular maintenance to address imbalances.
• Electrical Equipment Noise: Isolating electrical equipment from the surrounding environment, incorporating noise barriers, and using absorptive materials can help control high-frequency noise generated by electrical components.
• Transformer Noise: Employing soundproof enclosures, barriers, or barriers with absorptive materials can help mitigate transformer noise. In addition, selecting transformers with noise-reducing designs can also be an effective strategy.

Reduce Industrial Noise with Proven Solutions

At Sound Fighter Systems, our team can custom-build an effective barrier system best suited to your facility’s needs. Please fill out our online contact form, and our specialists will happily answer your questions.