Noise pollution is not easily defined. Part of the difficulty lies in the fact that in some ways it is different from other forms of pollution. Noise is transient; once the pollution stops, the environment is free of it. This is not the case for chemicals, sewage, and other pollutants introduced into the air, soil, or water.
The definition of noise itself is highly subjective. To some people the roar of an engine is satisfying or thrilling; to others it is an annoyance. Loud music may be enjoyable or a torment, depending on the listener and the circumstances. Broadly speaking, any form of unwelcome sound is noise pollution, whether it is the roar of a jet plane overhead or the sound of a barking dog a block away.
One measure of pollution is the danger it poses to health. Noise causes stress, and stress is a leading cause of illness. Therefore any form of noise can be considered pollution if it causes annoyance, sleeplessness, fright, or any other stress reaction. Should you have any further questions see our FAQs page or contact us by phone or email.
Measurement of Noise
| dB | Type Of Noise |
| 0dB | Threshold of Audibility - Rustle of leaves |
| 30db | Quiet conversation or in a quiet location in the country |
| 45dB | Typical office space. Ambience in the city at night |
| 50dB | Background noise in an office |
| 60dB | The sound of an average radio |
| 70dB | The sound of a car passing on the street |
| 80dB | An intercity train from a station platform/loud music in a home |
| 90dB | Pneumatic drill at 3 metres / sound of a truck passing on the street |
| 100dB | Jet plane taking off at 50 metres /sound of a rock band |
| 115dB | Limit of sound permitted in industry / Screaming baby |
| 120dB | Deafening |
| 140dB | Threshold of pain |
| 60-130dB | Dog Barking |
What is dB?
Decibel. A unit for measuring the relative strength of a signal. Usually expressed as the logarithmic ratio of the strength of a transmitted signal to the strength of the original signal.
A decibel is one tenth of a ‘bel’.