The “stilt and cascade” effects

Abstract

The article discusses the effects of noise on humans, animals, and plants. Sound can affect the hearing system, brain activity, various organs, and physical and mental activity. The text highlights that noise can cause an "Acoustic Trauma" to the auditory apparatus, which can be caused by a short or long exposure, depending on the type of disturbing source. Employees and workers who work in industries and services that involve noise are more likely to have hearing disorders and should undergo medical, psychological, and audiometric tests. The medical control of the hearing conditions of workers in noisy industries has a preventive function. Noise can also affect brain activity, reducing work performance, both intellectually and physically. The influence of noise affects different people in different ways, with the elderly, children, and the sick more vulnerable to the action of disturbing sounds. Noise control is important for improving working conditions and reducing absenteeism, due to illness or even accidents, with a consequent increase in productivity.