http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wium/local-wium-997443.mp3
MACOMB, IL – McDonough County is taking steps to reduce the noise levels in the kennel at the Animal Shelter in Macomb.
Quality engineer Scott Kingery said he has seen children visiting the shelter overwhelmed by the noise as they searched for a new pet.
He said, "Children that walk in there, there's barking and they're covering their ears. I feel like we're reaching that threshold of pain just by witnessing. We don't need a meter to see that."
Kingery said the noise levels, at their peak, could cause pain in humans. He said the average noise level could cause hearing loss over time.
He said the sound bounces off the walls in a confined area hitting visitors from all sides.
The county is acting on Kingery's recommendations to reduce the noise.
The animal shelter now has hearing protection for visitors and staff. It will also post signs warning visitors of the noise level.
The county will also install a sound-absorbing panel to gauge its effectiveness and durability.