About noise
Noise is any sound - independent of loudness - that may produce an undesired physiological or psychological effect in an individual and that may interfere with the social events of an individual or group.
Sound is measured on a relative scale, in decibels (dB), with 0 dB being the threshold of audibility, and 130 dB the threshold of pain. In an office, a general noise level of 45 to 55 dB is considered satisfactory. This level will help reduce the distraction associated with squeaky chairs, opening and closing drawers, and ringing phones. It also allows for easy conversation in normal tones at close range.
