APPLICATION OF BARRIERS IN NOISE CONTROL
Noise control refers to the act of reducing sound emissions to attain individual comfort, environmental standards as well as heed to the law. In order to control the noise, there is need to verify the source of noise then finding the best possible ways to counter the noise (Colin, 1997, pg.68 ). Efficient control of noise is that which aims at reducing the noise at the source rather than in other places. There are other means that may, however, be used in the reduction of noise pollution. They include sound absorption, sound lagging, vibration segregation and vibration damping.
Barriers are used in noise control and are most effective with mitigating road, rail and industrial sources of noise. They became an important part of noise control in the 1970’s after the introduction of noise regulations. Good sound insulation is important as it enhances privacy both internal and external as well as ensures that activities that are carried out are not harmful to the best possible way (David, 2009, pg. 357).
Absorptive materials are those that transform noise or sound waves to heat which is retainable rather than being scattered. How much a material can absorb sound is determined by the size, location, method of mounting used, and the shape of the material. Reflective materials are those that transform sound energy to waves which is then reflected to a surface that will then absorb it (Colin, 1997, pg.78). Thus Absorptive materials are rather more efficient than reflective.
Acoustic ceilings enhance privacy in institutions in that the staff gets the comfort they require and with comfort there is privacy hence the people will work better. The acoustic ceiling enhanced with a few other insulations help in countering noise pollution as it helps in reduction of noise and echo in a room or a building, hence enhances privacy (Crocker,1998, pg. 98). Acoustic ceilings reduce machinery and equipment noise, maintain a good environment for people to work in. thus it is right to say that acoustic ceilings do not completely block transmission; rather it reduces and manages it (David, 2009, pg. 361). It therefore is right for me to say that acoustic ceiling can be used as just a noise control measure and not as an eradicator of noise pollution.
REFERENCES
Colin H. Hansen, S. D. (1997). Active control of noise and vibration. New York: Taylor &
Francis.
Crocker, M. J. (1998). Handbook of acoustics. California: Wiley-IEEE.
David A. Bies, C. H. (2009). Engineering Noise Control: Theory and Practice. New York:
Taylor & Francis.
