The Noise at Work and the Professional Diseases

Abstract

This article describes the effects of workplace noise and outlines the main steps that should be taken to reduce and control noise at work. Exposure to noise at work can harm workers’ health. The most wellknown effect of noise at work is loss of hearing, a problem observed among coppersmiths since XVIII-th century. However, it can also ex-acerbate stress and increase the risk of accidents. Eliminating or reducing excessive noise at work is not simply a legal responsibility for employers; it is also in an organization’s commercial interests. The safer and healthier the working environment, the lower the probability of costly absenteeism, accidents and under-performance.