SENSORI-MOTOR PERFORMANCE UNDER VARYING NOISE CONDITIONS

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Abstract
A group of subjects performed a task in quiet and noisy environments. The noise was intermittent, within the frequency range of 75 to 9600 cycles and at sound levels of 70, 80, 90, and 100 db. The study was experimental, but simulated an occupational situation. There was a tendency for more errors and less precision when working in the noisy environment. Response times were slower and the number of errors greater than when noise levels and frequencies were highest. The frequency range of 2400-4800 cycles was associated with the slowest response time and largest number of errors, both at 90 and 100 db. It appears that intermittent noise may have a reducing effect on the individual's capacity for quick and precise execution of coordinated movements. The implications for safety and certain production tasks seem obvious.