Give acoustics the attention it deserves

Good acoustics is just as important as proper lightning, fresh air and good posture when sitting. Before acoustics were, mostly unconsciously, surpassed and it was a neglected problem. Nowadays acoustics is seen more and more as an important component in the design process of a 'healthy' interior.

Acoustics and health

Diverse studies show bad acoustics causing a negative effect on our health and causing serious health problems. Mainly headaches, tiredness and stress are often heard complaints. Noise pollution is often a source of frustration causing irritation. On the workplace noise distortion is experienced as a big distraction causing concentration problems. For each auditory disruption, the average employee loses about 10-15 minutes of concentration. Research of Ipsos shows this can add up to 86 minutes per day! In practise this results in a serious reduction of productivity and health complaints due to bad acoustics can even lead to illness and sick-leave.

important certifications

Acoustics being an important topic is shown by the current certification system for buildings in the field of sustainability and health. For instance, acoustics nowadays has a role in LEED, a system originally created to measure the environmental impact of buildings. Now when accredited, the quality of the inner environment is also taken into account. Within the WELL Building Standard, focussed on the development of buildings adding to the health and well-being of users, sound is one of the ten features where specifically is being scored on.

interplay of FACTORs

There unfortunately is no standard solution for an acoustic problem. Every place has its own variables, like different kinds of building materials, the size and shape of the space and the applied interior materials. The targeted function of the space is also relevant. A concert hall asks for different sound control than an office building or retail environment does. All these different factors combined influence the impression of the acoustics. By already taking all factors of acoustics into account in the design stage, problems in a later stage of development can be avoided. In this way healthy environments are created, where it is pleasant to work and remain. And acoustics - and our health - gets the attention it deserves.

Marc van Oijen is account manager at LEOXX for the region Brabant & Limburg. From his background and experience in the room-acoustics, he is specialised in acoustical interior materials and floor solutions at LEOXX.

Image acoustic mountainwall panels: Bogaerts Label | Project The Rise