Problems arising from high noise levels during manufacturing include risks to employee hearing, workers compensation liability, meeting health and safety regulations, loss of productivity, and increased insurance premiums. Effective noise reduction analyzes such elements as source, path, and receiver. Noise reduction can occur at the source, by blocking the path, or providing earplugs to the receiver. Reducing noise levels at the source is the most effective remedy. Enclosures for noisy equipment not only reduce noise, but serve as safety shields and reduce heat transfer. Many companies report that lower factory noise levels allow better empolyee communication and lower accidents, absenteeism, and insurance premium rates. Payback for noise attenuation systems is usually less than one year. Many acoustical material manufacturers use nonwoven fabrics as scrim for curtains, panels, and baffles.