Noise and Lighting Assessments
Work environment assessments are essential for obtaining information about the conditions in which employees perform their tasks. This makes it possible to implement appropriate personal protective equipment and technical solutions that help meet the requirements set by health and safety regulations.
Work Environment Measurements as a Way to Reduce Risk Factors
Each workplace is unique, and its environment varies from one facility to another. Its characteristics are influenced by the type of production carried out and the conditions required for it. Processes such as machining, electroplating, powder coating, the production of chemical agents, or casting of plastic or metal components generate aerosols or dust, as well as other hazards. These pose risks not only to people, but can also increase the likelihood of explosions or fires. Such risks can be reduced by commissioning our laboratory to perform relevant measurements and chemical analyses.
Noise is generally defined as a sound of excessive intensity (too loud) in a given place and time, perceived as pointless, then bothersome, unpleasant, annoying, and ultimately harmful. According to the Regulation of the Minister of Economy and Labour, noise is any sound that may lead to hearing loss or be harmful to any other aspect of health. A person’s reaction to noise is strongly influenced by their mental attitude. The body uses a significant amount of energy to protect itself from noise. One cannot become accustomed to noise — even if we are not consciously aware of it, we still experience its impact. Noise may originate from intense sounds, but also from various unwanted sounds that disturb the acoustic background and are bothersome due to their persistence, such as the constant sound of operating machines or music.
Noise can be harmful to human health, as excessive noise levels may damage the hearing system. Lower noise levels, if experienced over long periods or with an unfavorable acoustic spectrum (too high or too low), as well as those that are irritating in other ways (e.g., monotonous, prolonged, piercing, distracting), can adversely affect mental well-being. The more intense and prolonged the exposure to noise, the more serious the consequences - from irritation and aggressiveness, to depression and psychological disorders. Excessive noise levels can lead to hearing loss and contribute to workplace accidents. Continuous exposure to noise at levels of 70–85 dB poses a threat to human health and life, although the effects develop slowly.
Proper office lighting is fundamental to both employee well-being and improved productivity. Employers are obliged to ensure adequate lighting at workstations in the office, as it is key to visual comfort, visual performance, and safety. Insufficient lighting intensity damages vision, which can lead to workplace accidents and significantly reduce the quality of work performed.
Excessively bright light may cause discomfort, dizziness, headaches, and irritability.
