What do modern human societies sound like? Have we neglected the soundscapes of human society, and how may our cultural focus on our sense of sight have affected how we design buildings? The World Health Organization (WHO) categorizes noise as the most significant environmental health threat right after air pollution (1). This should also be […]
noise
Prevent arousals and awakenings in hospitals
In search of a noisy environment? Visit a hospital. Studies show that noise levels are high due to operational activities, communication, alarms, and noise from medical equipment, along with structural sounds from the building (such as ventilation and closing doors). Already back in 1859, nurse Florence Nightingale declared how “unnecessary noise is the cruelest abuse of […]
Multipurpose spaces function much better for their activities after acoustic improvements
The Municipal Music School of Pinto, in Madrid was in need of improving the acoustics of its facilities in order to further motivate its students and offer teachers a healthier work environment. More specifically, a multipurpose room as well as the entrance hall were treated with “Class A” absorbing acoustic solutions acoustic solutions. The latter […]
The impact of noise in education – a research summary
This new research summary is now available and lifts out evidence from a variety of research studies around the world. These studies address a broad range of important aspects which need to be considered in learning environments. It is based on a recent extensive literature review by Professor Emerita Bridget Shield made for Ecophon. We […]
Room Acoustics play an important role in healthcare efficiency
Room acoustics is an important factor to create sound, healing environments. Having a proper indoor climate can raise productivity by more than 15%[1] For more than a decade, ‘Evidence-Based Design (EBD) has been part of our DNA regarding building healthcare facilities. When it comes to the indoor climate we know that lighting, air quality, and […]
Healthcare and hearing impairment
People who are cut off acoustically from the external world not only lose their hearing, they are at risk of becoming socially and intellectually isolated. The less stimulation the brain receives, the more quickly its capacity diminishes[1]. Hearing impairment is connected to more than just hearing. Hearing loss and mental health Research all over the […]
Groundbreaking initiative from Quiet Mark with new Acoustics Academy launch
During the Surface Design Awards 2020 at the Business Design Centre in London, Quiet Mark launched their new Acoustics Academy. with a TED-style master-class event. The Acoustics Academy is a new online platform. which is intended to further equip and empower architects, builders and designers with an expertly verified guide of leading acoustic solutions for […]
Age-related hearing loss and acoustics
Age-related hearing loss affects almost all of us as we age. Good acoustics can promote not just hearing but also the ability to function and well-being. A calm acoustic environment benefits all of us, whatever level of hearing we have, but it is particularly important for those with hearing impairments. The most common cause of […]
International Congress on Acoustics 2019
The German Acoustical Society (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Akustik, DEGA) hosted the 23rd International Congress on Acoustics in the beautiful and historical city of Aachen in September 2019 The technical program included plenary, distinguished, invited, contributed, and poster papers covering all aspects of acoustics. There was also an extensive technical exposition highlighting the latest advances […]
Finnish study finds that the sound environment affects children’s listening skills
Noise and a poor sound environment can hinder linguistic development of nursery school children, says Doctor of Philosophy Elina Niemitalo-Haapola in her dissertation. According to the study, more attention should be paid to children’s sound and learning environments. While working as a speech therapist, Elina Niemitalo-Haapola went to kindergartens, schools and homes to find out […]
