Noise is a
options: 1) Physical agent 2) Chemical agent 3) Psychosocial agent 4) Assessment of thermal stress
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: 1) Physical agent
Noise is considered a physical agent because it involves energy in the form of sound waves that travels through air or other mediums and can have harmful effects on the human body, especially the auditory system.
A physical agent refers to an environmental factor that acts on the body through physical means, such as temperature, radiation, vibration, or sound. Noise, being sound that is typically unwanted or harmful, fits into this category because it is a mechanical vibration transmitted through air and detected by the ear.
Exposure to high levels of noise, particularly in workplaces such as factories, construction sites, or airports, can lead to a variety of health problems. The most immediate concern is hearing loss, especially sensorineural hearing loss, which is irreversible. Long-term exposure to moderate noise levels can still have serious effects, including tinnitus (a ringing in the ears), stress, sleep disturbances, and even increased risk of cardiovascular issues like hypertension and heart disease. These effects are due to the body’s stress response to continuous or loud sounds.
In occupational health and safety, noise is one of the most commonly monitored physical agents. Organizations use tools like sound level meters and dosimeters to measure exposure levels and assess the risk to workers. To prevent harm, regulations often specify permissible exposure limits (PELs) for noise, and employers may be required to provide personal protective equipment such as earplugs or earmuffs, and implement engineering controls to reduce noise at the source.
In contrast, chemical agents are substances like gases or liquids that can cause harm through chemical reactions in the body. Psychosocial agents relate to stress from social or organizational factors. Assessment of thermal stress involves measuring heat exposure, not sound. Therefore, noise is accurately classified as a physical agent.