NCJ Number
109660
Date Published
1987
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This paper outlines some existing noise control legislation, reviews the effects of noise on humans, and provides case studies of noise control procedures and solutions in a number of correctional facilities.
Abstract
Due to research that has documented the harmful effects of excessive noise levels (hearing impairment, stress, anxiety, and associated behavioral and physical consequences), many jurisdictions have enacted legislation that sets limit on noise levels and the length of time that persons may be exposed to various noise levels. Many correctional facilities are under judicial orders to reduce excessive noise levels. Noise in a correctional facility may result from the ear's reception of sound waves directly from the sound's source or from the reverberation of sound waves from a room's surfaces. The reverberations are maximized when room surfaces have hard finishes that do not absorb the sound waves. In most prisons and jails, the design goal should be a reverberation time of 1 second or less. Typical sound absorptive materials such as carpet, mineral and fiberglass board, drapery, fiber-based blocks, and other soft and semirigid materials are not appropriate in any security area of a correctional facility. The case histories presented (New Jersey, New York, and Florida) indicate that a metal panel system with special security features is an effective way to control noise in correctional facilities. 5 tables, 3 figures, and illustrative photographs.