Noise maximum value (Lp_max): Definition, Origin & Consequences

Noise maximum value: causes & origin

Physically, all sounds consist of sound waves. So as soon as a body vibrates, sounds are generated. The volume of sound is described in the unit of measurement decibel (dB). Where 1 decibel indicates the weakest sound audible to the human ear.

Across Europe, the greatest exposure is caused by traffic noise: around 40% of people in European countries are exposed to road noise of over 55 dB (decibels). The Federal Immission Control Act, on the other hand, sets limits of 50 dB (daytime) and 35 dB (nighttime) in purely residential areas.

In indoor areas, air conditioning systems, ventilation systems, machines and devices increase noise pollution. If several people meet in one room, this often leads to increased noise levels. In addition, sound waves from outside enter the rooms. However, the degree to which noise is perceived as such is subjective and depends on a wide variety of factors. For example, the distance to the noise source influences how it is perceived. Likewise, the perception of noise depends on how we feel, whether we see the sound source and at what time we are exposed to the noise. People often tolerate noise much more during the day than in the evening or even at night. The individual sensitivity to noise or the age of the person naturally also play a decisive role here.

Limit values as well as recommended normal values regarding noise exposure can be found listed under our measured value Noise Max.

Noise vs. noise maximum value: For whom is the sensor suitable?

With the air-Q, noise can also be measured in addition to air quality. The noise meter can track and evaluate two different measured values: the noise measured value and the noise maximum value. The noise maximum value records acute noise events in contrast to the measured value noise (Lp), which constantly tracks the "normal" noise values.

With this sensor, you therefore experience short-term noise stress: for example, a short, loud bang at night or times when the noise curve rises situationally. In this way, events are documented that abruptly interrupt your rest phases and thus cause stress. The monitoring of the noise maximum value is helpful for people who sleep restlessly and want to determine the cause of this. The evaluation shows when limit values are exceeded. This information can be used to draw conclusions about the noise source as the cause of restless sleep.

The sensor is also suitable for schools, offices, kindergartens or private everyday life. It objectively detects the volume in a room and indicates when the recommended limits are exceeded with the help of easy-to-understand LED bars. This traffic light function intuitively informs even small children when the room is getting too loud. This is useful in the kindergarten, the classroom, but also in the open-plan office or in your own living room.

Noise maximum value: Health consequences

Health effects of noise can be divided into two categories: the physical reactions as well as the psychological effects.

Physical reactions due to noise:

• Increase in heart rate & associated cardiovascular problems
• Constriction of blood vessels & decrease in skin temperature
• Hearing disorders up to and including tinnitus
• Tension of the musculature
• Headache & circulatory disorders
• Stomach and intestinal diseases
• Diseases of the thyroid gland
• Elevated blood lipid levels & hormonal imbalances

Psychological effects of noise:

• Decrease in performance & increase in error frequency
• diminished resilience
• Learning difficulties, especially in children
• Nervousness & irritability
• Sleep disorders

air-Q reading tip: We have compiled further information on the subject of noise and possible evaluations in a separate article. You can find it here.

How do I avoid damage to health caused by noise?

• Monitor noise exposure & evaluate peak values (best with the air-Q's integrated noise sensor & noise traffic light).
• Use plants, furniture, floor coverings & curtains for better sound reduction.
• Insulate windows with the help of composite foams
• If possible: bedroom should not be located on the street
• Resting your hearing (don't leave TV or music on all the time)