Of all the environmental problems plaguing industrial economies, noise pollution might seem the like the least physically threatening. But beware - while it may not poison lungs or produce smog, noise pollution still harms your sense of well-being.

Certain steps can be taken to cut exposure to noise. Sound walls along public roads can shield nearby neighborhoods from the harmful effects of traffic noise. At home or in the workplace, lagging walls and double-glazing windows can muffle traffic noise or the distracting noise of your neighbors.

But if you do not have access to such facilities, then it is time you invest in white noise headphones. People who move in environments where the noise can't be easily tuned out find white noise headphones to be helpful - more helpful, in fact, than portable music players. White noise headphones allow you to shut out a noisy environment on your own terms. These specialized headphones can reduce background noises more efficiently than ordinary headphones that come with music players. They produce a white noise that neutralizes distracting elements in your surroundings.

White noise headphones are lightweight and well-designed. They are generally comfortable to wear; the ear pads sit close to the ear but are not invasive (unlike earplugs). Sometimes, the headphones include a nylon carrying pouch for safekeeping. Some may even feature an airplane adapter so that you can use your headphones during air travel and enjoy a total time-out while you fly.

Forget about turning up the radio volume to block everyday noise in your surroundings. Use white noise headphones instead to improve your productivity and increase your privacy, whether you're at home or in the office. White noise headphones are a great tool that any busy worker must have. With these noise-reduction headphones, you can tune out the noise pollution in the environment without damaging your sense of hearing.