Introduction
Have you ever visited a restaurant or bar where the noise was so loud that you struggled to have a conversation? Many people assume that popular restaurants and bars are naturally noisy, but excessive noise can significantly impact our health and well-being.
While customers only spend a few hours in these places, employees work in such noisy environments for over 8 hours a day, multiple times a week. Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can lead to hearing loss, stress, and other serious health problems.
A study conducted in New York revealed that most restaurants and bars had noise levels that not only hinder conversations but also pose a threat to hearing health. However, this issue is not exclusive to New York—it is a problem in Korea as well. So how can we address this issue?
시끄러운 레스토랑과 바, 얼마나 심각할까?
A study analyzing 2,376 restaurants and bars in New York found the following results:
- Average noise level in restaurants: 78 dBA (difficult to have a conversation)
- Average noise level in bars: 81 dBA (potentially harmful to hearing)
- 71% of restaurants are too loud for normal conversation
- 90% of bars are so noisy that conversations are nearly impossible
For reference, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that safe noise exposure should be below 70 dBA. This means that most restaurants and bars exceed safe noise levels. Although this study was conducted in New York, the situation in Korea is no different. Popular areas such as Hongdae, Gangnam, Itaewon, and university districts have many restaurants and bars where noise levels are excessively high.
시끄러운 공간에서 일하는 종업원들의 고통
While customers only stay for an hour or two, restaurant employees are exposed to noise for long hours every day. This makes them more vulnerable to hearing damage and other health risks.
Hearing Loss and Permanent Damage
Exposure to noise levels above 80 dBA for extended periods can damage auditory cells and lead to hearing loss.
If the noise level exceeds 85 dBA consistently, the risk of permanent hearing loss increases.
Unfortunately, many employees are unaware of this risk, and employers rarely take necessary precautions.
Increased Stress and Mental Health Issues
Prolonged exposure to loud noise is linked to an increase in cortisol, the stress hormone.
Studies show that excessive noise can lead to fatigue, reduced concentration, anxiety, and even depression.
Waitstaff and bartenders, who must take orders and communicate with customers in noisy environments, experience even greater stress levels.
Hypertension and Cardiovascular Risks
Long-term exposure to high noise levels is associated with increased blood pressure and higher risks of cardiovascular diseases. Working in environments above 80 dBA for extended hours can lead to hypertension, heart attacks, and strokes. In some European countries, restaurant and bar employees are provided with noise protection equipment to prevent these risks. The excessive noise in restaurants and bars is not just an inconvenience for customers—it is a serious occupational health issue for employees. So how can we reduce noise in these environments?
소음을 줄이는 방법
1. Using Sound-Absorbing Materials
Installing acoustic panels, carpets, and fabric-covered furniture in walls, ceilings, and floors can significantly reduce sound reflection and control overall noise levels. A well-designed acoustic environment creates a more comfortable space for both employees and customers.
2. Implementing Sound Masking – Controlling Unwanted Noise
If eliminating noise entirely is challenging, sound masking can be a highly effective solution. This technique involves introducing a controlled background sound at specific frequencies to make unwanted noise less noticeable. For example, applying the right level of white noise can make conversations sound more natural, reducing the need for people to raise their voices. Many upscale restaurants, hotels, and bars already use sound masking systems to create a quieter and more pleasant atmosphere. When used alongside sound-absorbing materials, sound masking can optimize noise control even further.
3. Protecting Employees’ Hearing and Improving Working Conditions
Constant exposure to loud noise can cause hearing loss, stress, and other health issues for employees.
Employers should provide noise-reducing earplugs, adjust work schedules, and implement workplace noise regulations to ensure a healthier environment.
소음이 줄어들면?
- Customers can enjoy a more pleasant dining experience and stay longer.
- Employees experience less fatigue and stress, improving productivity.
- Restaurants and bars create a more comfortable ambiance, leading to higher customer satisfaction.
Excessive noise is not something we should accept as normal—it is a problem that needs to be actively addressed. By combining sound-absorbing materials with sound masking technology, restaurants and bars can achieve a lively yet comfortable acoustic environment. If you are looking for noise reduction solutions, TORNEX is here to help!