Laborers protesting with clasped hands in front of Home Depot with noise machine mist

Day laborers in Cypress Park urge Home Depot to remove high‑pitched noise machines, citing headaches and nausea, while the store says they curb overnight parking

Day laborers in Cypress Park are demanding that Home Depot remove high‑pitched noise machines from its parking lot, saying the devices give them headaches and nausea.

They claim the machines are used to discourage them from looking for work at the store.

The Noise Machines

The machines, installed at light poles around the parking lot, emit a high‑pitched tone. Home Depot says they are part of a broader effort to keep the store safe and prevent illegal overnight parking.

Laborers’ Concerns

Some workers report headaches and nausea caused by the noise. Advocates argue the devices are designed to keep day laborers from looking for work at the store.

Home Depot’s Response

The retailer sent a statement and photos to NBC4, claiming the noise is part of several initiatives to protect the store. A video shows the tone playing during the day, while photos depict RVs, cars and trash in the lot. Home Depot added that the Cypress Park location is the only one in the area using these machines and that it has seen a noticeable difference since they were installed.

Key Takeaways

Day laborers standing around a Home Depot storefront with blue glow noise machines and a subtle help wanted sign.
  • Day laborers allege the noise causes headaches and nausea.
  • Home Depot claims the devices deter overnight parking and protect the store.
  • The Cypress Park location is the sole site in the area using the machines.

The dispute highlights tensions between local workers and a major retailer over parking and safety measures in the Cypress Park area.

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