The effect of noise content and level on cognitive performance measured by electroencephalography (EEG)

Task-irrelevant noises pose deleterious effects on task performance, health, and work safety, especially in the construction field. However, the quantitative effects of noise on the cognitive performance in construction remain relatively unexplored. The paper aims to examine the effects of various noise conditions on task performance and cognitive performance via a portable electroencephalography device. A total of 27 subjects participated the experiment to identify hazards under different noise exposure conditions (contents and levels). The behavioral performance (accuracy and reaction time) and electroencephalography were collected and analyzed. The findings indicated a negative relationship between the performance of the participants and the exposure to noise. The intrinsic cognitive states including attention, stress and mental workload have been affected in varying degrees. Evaluating the impact of noise on cognitive functions helps explain the mental effects of the impaired performance. Neurocognitive monitoring with electroencephalography sets the basis for predicting task performance under different noise conditions.