Even low-level noise can negatively affect performance in offices and schools by affecting brain function. Photo: File
Stockholm: Experts have said after a study that noise in the workplace affects people’s ability to work, even if the noise level is less than 40 decibels.
The sound of light rain can reach up to 40 decibels and can affect mental and cognitive ability, which can have negative consequences in offices and schools.
The Chalmers Institute of Technology in Sweden has conducted a study which claims that even minor noise affects the brain function of office workers and has a negative impact on their productivity. This includes 40 decibels of noise, which is Swedish traffic noise.
According to research, the brain is so sensitive that even low noise can affect its cognitive ability.
For this, the scientists sat the volunteers in an office-like room and asked them to work. A couple of speakers were hidden behind the curtain, emitting light traffic sounds. Meanwhile, the participants were shown some words on the computer and asked to pay attention to them. During this time there was an uproar. These sounds included the noise of a truck passing by ten to fifty meters away.
Although 40 decibels of noise is common in some offices and kitchens, it also affects the brain. Most of the 42 participants could not focus on the words because of the noise, and when the noise was removed, errors in writing the words also occurred less.
This research proves that even low levels of noise can affect brain function.
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