The Impact of Occupational Noise on the Health of Academic Staff and Methods for Its Reduction in Educational Institutions

Abstract

The modern education system places increasingly high demands on teachers regarding the quality of teaching, scientific activity and administrative workload. Against the background of these challenges, the issue of preserving the health of teachers is gaining strategic importance: an exhausted or sick teacher or lecturer is unable to ensure the proper quality of the educational process. Among the numerous harmful production factors affecting teachers, industrial noise occupies a special place. Unlike industrial enterprises, where noise pollution is traditionally the focus of occupational hygiene, educational institutions have long remained a "white spot" in this area. However, studies in recent years have convincingly shown that noise levels in school and university classrooms, corridors and laboratories often exceed permissible sanitary standards, and teachers are one of the most vulnerable categories of workers to the effects of chronic noise exposure. The nature, levels, and mechanisms of the impact of occupational noise in higher education institutions on the mental and physical health of academic staff are investigated. Methods for noise control have been systematized and validated. The study employed the following methods: theoretical analysis of scientific literature and regulatory documents, systematization and generalization of data from domestic and international studies, and comparative analysis of hygiene standards. It has been established that noise levels in the university environment systematically exceed permissible exposure limits (DSN 3.3.6.037-99) by 10–25 dBA. Noise-induced hearing loss and nonspecific (cardiovascular, neuropsychological and endocrine) effects associated with chronic noise exposure have been identified. A direct relationship between noise exposure and occupational burnout among teachers has been established. A set of technical, organizational and medical preventive measures are proposed. Conclusions: Occupational noise in the academic environment requires a comprehensive approach combining engineering control measures, optimization of work schedules and ongoing health monitoring of academic staff.