the role of acoustics in health and safety
create safer, healthier spaces with effective acoustic treatment
From office spaces to industrial buildings, schools to sports venues, noisy spaces can significantly impact people’s health and wellbeing. Noise is often referred to as the ‘forgotten pollutant’, and for good reason: it surrounds us daily, yet it remains an invisible threat, subtly affecting our mental and physical health without us even realising it.
Given these serious implications, addressing noise in our surroundings is crucial. In the UK, it’s also a legal requirement; regulations from the Health and Safety Executive state that employers have a duty to protect employees by providing hearing protection when noise exceeds 85 dB(A).
Creating harmonious, healthy environments begins with understanding the health and safety implications of noise – and the steps you can take to tackle them.
the effects of noise
Excessive noise is more than just an irritant – it can have lasting effects on both our physical and mental health. To put this issue into perspective, research from the UK Health Security Agency suggests that the equivalent of 130,000 healthy life years are lost from noise pollution each year in Britain.
Noise-induced hearing loss is one of the most prevalent issues, with the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) listing it as the second most frequent reason for employers’ liability insurance claims for occupational health. Our latest ebook, Silence the Noise, revealed an alarming statistic supporting this fact: more than 1 in 5 employees in warehousing and logistics have sought medical attention for hearing issues related to work noise.
However, hearing damage is only part of the problem. Here are just a few of the many ways that noise can harm:
- Heightened stress levels
- Interrupted sleep, fatigue and exhaustion
- Increased risk of mental health issues (Anxiety, Depression)
- High blood pressure and cholesterol
- Increased risk of cardiovascular disease, heart attacks and strokes
why choose SonaSpray?
Investing in an acoustic treatment is a simple but effective way to limit these risks. Oscar Acoustics’ SonaSpray range of acoustic spray treatments absorbs sound energy instead of reflecting it, allowing for quiet indoor spaces that protect people from the impacts of noise.
This innovative solution not only enhances comfort but also offers significant savings in both time and costs. Installation is quick and easy, as SonaSpray sprays directly onto plasterboard, concrete, steel sheet and most other surfaces.
For further safety assurance, all five of SonaSpray’s architectural finishes meet stringent fire safety standards. It’s also compliant with some of the world’s most rigorous and comprehensive standards for indoor air quality, GREENGUARD Gold and BREEAM, providing peace of mind that your indoor environment is both safe and healthy.
The ideal choice for fit-outs, refurbishments, or new builds, SonaSpray offers unparalleled versatility in design. Whether you’re aiming for a modern, minimalist look or a more traditional ambiance, its wide range of colours and textures allows it to seamlessly integrate into any aesthetic—ensuring your space is not only safe, but stylish.
London workspace for a global NGO
For a closer look at how SonaSpray has transformed the health and safety of indoor spaces, consider our work at an inclusive London workspace for a global NGO.
In this stylish, Manhattan loft-style office, SonaSpray K-13 was applied in grey to absorb sound energy while seamlessly blending into the design. This allowed employees to work harmoniously without distractions, creating a safer, healthier environment where their wellbeing was prioritised.
ANZ office
Similarly, when ANZ envisioned its new offices, it sought a dynamic, open-plan space that reflected its values of community and collaboration.
To create distinct zones for focused work and private calls, the project’s architects turned to SonaSpray K-13. This application effectively reduced noise levels, enabling ANZ to cater to the diverse needs of all employees and enhance their safety and comfort, however they choose to work.
safety first – choose SonaSpray
In an increasingly noisy world, prioritising high-quality acoustics is vital. By tackling noise pollution with effective acoustic treatments, you can create safer, healthier environments where people can thrive.
Ready to discover how our acoustic solutions could transform the health and safety of your space? Contact us today to get started.