Impact of Varied Noise Exposure on Workers’ Quality of Life and Work: A Multi-Environment Study

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to comparatively evaluate the quality of daily life and quality of work life among employees working in environments with different noise exposure levels to explore the potential impact of occupational noise on overall well-being.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the audiology department at Trakya University between April and July 2024. The study included 86 employees who worked in an industrial estate, street market, hospital laboratory, and office. Noise levels in the environments were measured with a sound level meter, and participants were asked to complete the Short-Form 12 Questionnaire (SF-12) and the Quality of Work Life (QWL).

Results: Average noise levels were highest in the street market (73.63 dBA) and lowest in the office (55.80 dBA). A significant difference was found between laboratory employees and street market workers in the physical component of the SF-12 and between industrial estate workers and office employees in the mental component (P < .05). The QWL scores did not differ significantly by group. Regression analyses revealed that age significantly predicted Physical Component Score-12 scores, while both age and work environment were significant predictors of Mental Component Score-12; however, no predictors were associated with QWL.

Conclusion: Even when below legal limits, noise exposure in various work environments has negative impacts on employees’ quality of daily life. It is important that occupational health and safety policies address not only loud noises but also common “noisy” working conditions. Regular noise measurements, encouraging the use of protective equipment, and awareness training could play a critical role in improving employees’ quality of daily and work life.

Cite this article as: Avcı NB, Ali C, Nterntiman A, Ferat OM, Taşdemir Gürşen İ, Bulut E. Impact of varied noise exposure on workers’ quality of life and work: A multienvironment study. Arch Health Sci Res. 2026, 13, 0189, doi: 10.5152/ArcHealthSciRes.2026.25189.