Noise Pollution

                                NOISE POLLUTION

We enjoy on “radio or television” by hearing sounds of different qualities. In “musical programs”, we hear the sound produced by musical instruments such as” flute harmonium, violin, drum” etc. The sound of these ‘instruments” has a pleasant effect on our ears. Such sounds which are “pleasant” on ears are called musical sounds. However, some “sounds produce unpleasant effects” on our ears such as “ sound of machinery” the” slamming of door”, and “sounds of traffic in big cities”. A sound which has” jarring and unpleasant effect” on our ears is called noise. Noise corresponds to irregular and sudden vibrations produced by same sounds.

              Noise pollution has become a major “issue” of concern in big cities. Noise is an” undesirable sound” that is harmful to” health of human” and other “species”. Transportation equipment and heavy machinery are the main sources of noise pollution. For example, “noise of machinery” in” industrial areas”,” loud vehicle horns”,” hooters and alarms”. Noise has negative effects on human health as it can cause conditions such as” hearing loss”, “sleep disturbances”,” aggression”, “hypertension”,” high-stress levels”. Noise can also cause accidents by interfering with “communication” and” warning signals”. 

        A” safe level of noise” depends on two factors:” the level(volume) of the noise”; and” the period of exposure to the noise”. The level of” noise” recommended in most countries is usually” 85-90 dB” over an “eight-hour workday”. Noise pollution can be reduced to the acceptable level by replacing the noisy machinery with “environment-friendly machinery” and “equipment”, “putting sound-reducing barriers”, or using “hearing protection devices”.