It's so noisy at work, what are ways for them to control the sound?

Question

I work in an all metal building, with many loud machines and pumps running. Instead of everyone wearing earplugs, I want to give them the idea of maybe lining the ceiling with a soundproof material. Any ideas on what they could use, like something I could suggest?

Answer 1

you thinking like a real Engineer, kudos.

unfortunately i doubt your bosses share the same sentiments.

Answer 2

Earplugs would be the best option as nothing is totally good at absorbing all the noise.

Acoustic Tiles can aide in absorbing a small percentage of the sound.

Answer 3

I don't really have any ideas but I can tell you that you'd be hard pressed to persuade your bosses to spend money on expensive sound proofing when ear plugs are like 50 cents a pop

Answer 4

There are 3 types of sound proofing as of I know.

1. close the sound source with material that is sound proof ( thick concreate, glass wool, recron fiber, etc) - may not be possible for macines

2. Use active noise cancellors, they produce equal amplitude sound and at opposite phase. since both are at opposite phase they cancel out. ( simillar of active noise cancelling head phones)

3. Use sound obsorbing materials on the walls, ceilinga nd flooring, this will avoid reflections. and people inside the room will hear lesser noise.

try to reduce the noise at the source as much as possible.

Saravana

Answer 5

Research "Health Safety and Environmental HSE and noise".  THere are a wide variety of technologies available (and some cost more than others).  OSHA will tell you that engineering solutions are always better than PPE (personal protective equipment) including ear plugs.  Your company must have someone who is designated as the HSE person (although they may have other responsibilities as well).  Talk to them.  Good luck.