During a ferry ride to Sausalito, Dr. Daniel Fink noted a rare sign requiring ear protection near the engine room—a reminder that while workplace noise has safety limits, no standards exist for public noise exposure.

Dr. Daniel Fink of The Quiet Coalition highlights a UK report showing that office noise is a major barrier to employees returning to in-person work post-pandemic. A survey of 2,000 professionals found noise negatively impacts concentration, satisfaction, and even causes stress and hearing issues. Many workers adjust schedules or prefer remote work to escape the noise. Improving office acoustics is not just about well-being—it’s key to productivity and business success.

The Noisy Planet website, a national campaign to prevent noise-induced hearing loss in children, was retired on May 1, 2025. While it offered valuable educational content for kids aged 8–12, its claim that 85 dBA is a safe noise level has been criticized as too high, especially for children. Experts note that safer daily exposure may be closer to 55–70 dBA. Despite its flaws, Noisy Planet was a helpful resource and its closure marks a loss in public health education.

International Noise Awareness Day (INAD), founded in 1996 by Nancy Nadler and others, aims to raise awareness about the harmful effects of noise on hearing, health, and quality of life. Celebrated globally, including in the U.S. and South Africa, INAD marks its 30th year on April 30. The Quiet Coalition and Quiet Communities, Inc. encourage efforts toward a quieter, healthier world.