Noise, Cognitive Function, and Worker Productivity†

• 成果类型: Article
• 署名作者: Dean, Joshua T.
• 署名单位: University of Chicago
• 刊物名称: AMERICAN ECONOMIC JOURNAL-APPLIED ECONOMICS
• ISSN/ISSBN: 1945-7782
• DOI: 10.1257/app.20220532
• 发表日期: 2024
• 页码: 322-360
• 关键词: road traffic noise; self-control; aircraft noise; pollution; performance; inhibition; psytoolkit; attention; HEALTH; memory

摘要

Noisy workplaces common in low- and middle-income countries can impair workers' cognitive functions. However, whether this lowers earnings depends on the importance of these functions for productivity and whether workers understand these effects. I study these questions with two randomized experiments in Nairobi, Kenya. I find a noise increase of 7 dB reduces productivity in a textile training course by 3 percent, impairs cognitive function, but does not affect effort. I also find willingness to pay for quiet working conditions does not depend on whether pay depends on performance, suggesting participants are not aware that quiet would increase their productivity. ( JEL D12, J24, J28, J31, J81, O15, Q53)