Noise Control in Hospital Building- Strategies and Solutions

Hospitals are expected to provide a quiet and comfortable environment that promotes patient recovery and efficient healthcare services. However, noise pollution has become a significant issue in hospital buildings due to medical equipment, staff activities, visitors, alarms, and external traffic. Excessive noise levels can negatively affect patient healing, disturb sleep, increase stress levels, and reduce staff efficiency. The present study investigates noise levels in selected hospital buildings and evaluates effective strategies for noise control. A questionnaire survey was conducted with hospital staff and patients to understand the perception of noise and its impact on hospital environments. Noise measurements were carried out using a digital sound level meter during three different time periods: morning, afternoon, and evening. For each time period, maximum and minimum noise levels were recorded and average values were calculated. The measured noise levels were compared with the recommended limits of the World Health Organization (WHO) and national standards. The results indicated that the observed noise levels exceeded the permissible limits in most areas of the hospital. Based on the findings, several sound-absorbing materials and acoustic solutions such as acoustic ceiling panels, soundabsorbing wall panels, rubber flooring, and acoustic partitions were suggested to reduce noise levels. A cost estimation was also prepared for implementing these materials in a typical ICU room. The study concludes that proper acoustic design and the use of suitable sound-absorbing materials can significantly reduce noise levels in hospitals and create a healthier healing environment for patients and medical staff