A pilot study by researchers at the University of Michigan Health System tested how much quieter a hospital can get using sound panels specifically designed to keep the volume down, according to an article on the Tech Times website.
Sound and acoustic panels placed around patient rooms and in hallways diffused sound and brought it down to 3-4 decibels.
For three days, four acoustic panels were installed strategically in the ceilings and walls of a cardiovascular care unit. The custom panels were covered in cones and made with material that absorbs sound.
During daytime, sound levels were measured at 60 decibels. However, the study recorded 57 decibels in the hallways where the sound panels were installed, the article said.
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