Non-auditory effects of noise at work: an overview and perspective

It is widely known that noise at high sound pressure levels may have adverse effects on the auditory system, which can end up in noise-induced hearing loss. In addition to these auditory effects, non-auditory effects of noise, which can already appear at moderate levels, should be thoroughly considered in an occupational context in order to ensure safety and health at work. An overview of non-auditory effects will be given, along the questions: Which effects are typically summarised under the term "non-auditory effects"? What approaches are frequently used to uncover these effects? With regard to cognitive performance: Which other factors can influence the effects of noise? Why is it often challenging to verify detrimental effects caused by noise, although most people feel disturbed? Along the legal regulations in Germany, it will be explained what the term "rating level" means and for which categories of professional activities what rating levels must not be exceeded in order to avoid or minimise non-auditory effects. Finally, by means of results from own studies carried out at BAuA, it will be shown that also sounds at moderate levels can lead to detrimental effects, and what issues may occur when trying to reveal effects on cognitive performance.