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Noise, Cognitive Function, and Worker Productivity

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  • Joshua T. Dean

Abstract

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Joshua T. Dean, 2024. "Noise, Cognitive Function, and Worker Productivity," American Economic Journal: Applied Economics, American Economic Association, vol. 16(4), pages 322-360, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:aea:aejapp:v:16:y:2024:i:4:p:322-60
    DOI: 10.1257/app.20220532
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    Citations

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    Cited by:

    1. Takeru Sugasawa & Yuta Kuroda & Kai Nomura & Shohei Yasuda & Jun Yoshida, 2024. "The impact of flight noise on urban housing markets: Evidence from the new landing flight paths of Haneda Airport in Japan," DSSR Discussion Papers 144, Graduate School of Economics and Management, Tohoku University.

    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • D12 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - Consumer Economics: Empirical Analysis
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • J28 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Safety; Job Satisfaction; Related Public Policy
    • J31 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Wage Level and Structure; Wage Differentials
    • J81 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Standards - - - Working Conditions
    • O15 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Economic Development: Human Resources; Human Development; Income Distribution; Migration
    • Q53 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Air Pollution; Water Pollution; Noise; Hazardous Waste; Solid Waste; Recycling

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