Monitoring and assessment of daily exposure of roadside workers to traffic noise levels in an Asian city: a case study of Bangkok streets

Four noise monitoring sites were strategically established to evaluate average noise level and audiometric assessment at various traffic zones of Bangkok Metropolitan Region (BMR). During the monitoring period, noise levels were found to be 72.8–83.0 dBA during day time and 59.5–74.5 dBA during night time. The finding also indicated that traffic noise levels depend on distance from roadside, diurnal variation and character of the traffic and street configuration. Audiometric measurement of 4000 persons was carried by four major hospitals in Bangkok to study the relationship between traffic noise exposure of groups of people working in the streets and hearing loss. Four different categories of occupational people, i.e., drivers, street vendors, traffic officers and dwellers were selected and were further classified into age groups (16–25, 26–35, 36–45 and 46–55 years old) to monitor the traffic noise induced hearing loss throughout their everyday lives. The control group was deliberately chosen to screen out the effects of traffic noise. According to the audiometric investigation, it was revealed that hearing capacity of the daily noise exposure groups living in the three urban sites (Yaowarat Road, Din Daeng Road and Ratchaprarop Road) were noticeably poorer than those who were living in suburban site (Phahonyothin Road). It was noted that the mean hearing threshold level (HTL) of the 16–25 years old groups were found to have better hearing capacity than those older adults of 46–55 years old. In particular the mean HTL dropped at the frequency of 4000 Hz. Among the occupational population who were living in the urban monitoring sites, the driver groups were found to have the highest risk of traffic noise induced hearing loss.     

农贸市场噪声对其周围环境的影响

对某农贸市场的场内噪声,场界噪声及其周围居民区环境噪声进行了监测,结果表明,农贸市场营业时,噪声监测值内,场界及居民区均超标;农贸市场不营业时,场界除３个测点略超标外,余达标,居民区略超标。就农贸市场噪声对其周围环境的影响,提出了控制对策。     

The effects of low frequency noise on mental performance and annoyance

Low frequency noise (LFN) as background noise in urban and work environments is emitted from many artificial sources such as road vehicles, aircraft, and air movement machinery including wind turbines, compressors, and ventilation or air conditioning units. In addition to objective effects, LFN could also cause noise annoyance and influence mental performance; however, there are no homogenous findings regarding this issue. The purpose of this research was to study the effects of LFN on mental performance and annoyance, as well as to consider the role of extraversion and neuroticism on the issue. This study was conducted on 90 students of Iran University of Medical Sciences (54 males and 36 females). The mean age of the students was 23.46 years (SD?=?1.97). Personality traits and noise annoyance were measured by using Eysenck Personality Inventory and a 12-scale self-reported questionnaire, respectively. Stroop and Cognitrone computerized tests measured mental performance of participants each exposed to 50 and 70 dBA of LFN and silence. LFNs were produced by Cool Edit Pro 2.1 software. There was no significant difference between mental performance parameters under 50 and 70 dBA of LFN, whereas there were significant differences between most mental performance parameters in quiet and under LFN (50 and 70 dBA). This research showed that LFN, compared to silence, increased the accuracy and the test performance speed (p?<?0.01). There was no association between LFN and noise annoyance (p?>?0.01). Introverts conducted the tests faster than extraverts (p?<?0.05). This research showed that neuroticism does not influence mental performance. It seems that LFN has increased arousal level of participants, and extraversion has a considerable impact on mental performance.     

Occupational noise in printing companies

The extent of noise in five printing companies in Novi Sad, Serbia, was determined using TES-1358A Sound Analyzer with RS-232 Interface. The data on equivalent A-level (dBA), as well as, maximum and minimum sound pressure levels were collected. It was found that folders and offset printing units are the predominant noise sources, with the average L (eq) levels of 87.66 and 82.7 dBA, respectively. Forty percent of the machines produced noise levels above the limiting threshold level of 85 dBA, allowed by law. The noise in all printing companies was dominated by higher frequency noise, and the maximum level mostly appeared at 4,000 Hz. For offset printing machines and folders, the means of L (eq) levels exceeded the permissible levels given by NR-80 curve at higher frequencies. There are no published studies of occupational noise and hearing impairment of workers exposed to hazardous noise in printing industry in Serbia. More extensive studies are needed to determine the exact impact of noise on the workers. Technical and organizational measures in order to control noise and prevent noise exposure, and general hearing conservation program to protect workers, should be introduced in printing industry.     

Main results of strategic noise maps and action plans in Navarre (Spain)

According to Directive 2002/49, strategic noise maps and their correspondent action plans were carried out in the Autonomous Community of Navarre, Spain. Six strategic noise maps were produced for 120 km of major roads as well as a strategic noise map for the Agglomeration of the Region of Pamplona (ARP) with a population of 280,199 inhabitants. In the ARP, a total of 36,400 people (13.0 %) are exposed to Ln levels over 55 dBA and 42,300 people (15.1 %) are exposed to Lden levels over 65 dBA. With regard to major roads, a total of 3,900 people are exposed to Ln levels over 55 dBA and 2,400 people are exposed to Lden levels over 65 dBA. When designing action plans, different prioritisation criteria concerning rank-based effectiveness measures (mainly the amount of people benefitting from them) were taken into account.     

Aircraft-Induced Noise Levels in Some Residential Areas of Delhi

The measurements of aircraft-induced noise levels in some residential areas in the capital city of India were carried out in the month of April and May, 1996. Four areas were chosen which were located underneath the flight path. It has been found that average increase in noise levels over and above the background levels is more than 20 dBA except in case of the most distant site where it is 11 dBA. A good correlation has been found between average peak noise levels (dBA) and the population response in terms of annoyance.     

Spatial variations in pedestrian soundscape evaluation of traffic noise

Walking is necessary for experiencing urban space, but pedestrians are seriously disturbed by traffic noise. This study aimed to clarify spatial variations in soundscape evaluation in pedestrian spaces used solely for walking, including traffic noise annoyance, the dominance of various sound sources, and the perceptual dimensions of the soundscape. Three traffic noise level areas, at various distances from the road, were evaluated in a typical pedestrian space in China, using a questionnaire survey in an on-site study. The results reveal that, first, the soundscape evaluations in the high-noise area (70 dBA) and middle-noise area (60 dBA) are more similar, but present a larger difference with the low-noise area (50 dBA). The latter is more complicated, and more subjective evaluations in this area are required than for higher sound-level areas. Second, the correlation between the soundscape evaluations of the middle-noise area and the low-noise area demonstrates more similarity, but presents a larger difference with the high-noise area, meaning the effectiveness in the high-noise area may differ from lower sound level areas even with the same soundscape improvement measures. Finally, the relationship of the dominance of natural sound with other soundscape evaluations become weaker as the distance from the road increases; this means that deliberately increasing natural sound might be an effective method to improve the soundscape quality in the high-noise area. These findings can provide a reference for soundscape evaluations and landscape design in pedestrian spaces where traffic noise is a problem.     

Noise surveys of hand-held pneumatic rock drills in Hong Kong

A study of the noise generated by hand-held pneumatic rock drills at 15 road works locations in Hong Kong was conducted in 1989. The locations of road construction works were identified over one week period. Sound pressure levels (SPL) and band frequency analysis were measured with the integrated sound level meter at the level of the operator's ears. The sound levels for all 15 operators exceeded the local statutory limit of 90 dBA. The average sound level was 107.4 dBA and the corresponding continuous equivalent level adjusted to 8 hours or L _eq (8h) was 104.8 dBA. The sound levels for the octave frequencies from 125 Hertz to 8000 Hertz were all in excess of 90 dBA. Estimates of the risk of developing hearing impairment for conversation speech among the operators were 18% and 42% after 5 and 10 years of exposure, respectively. Although there is adequate statutory control to restrict and reduce the hazards caused by noise at road construction works to the workers and to the public at large, no noise control measures were noted at the work sites and none of the operators used hearing protection. This situation was compounded by the short-term nature of road works and the high mobility of the operators.     

Major factors of industrial noise-induced hearing loss in Hong Kong

A tripartite participation of government, trade unions and university was formed in 1988 to study the situation of industrial noise and hearing acuity of workers. Since 1982, the six industries identified by the Noise Control Office were construction, electronics, metals, plastics, shipbuilding and repairing, and textiles. Safety-subcommittees were formed. With the help of these subcommittees, 21 out of 32 medium-size factories responded to the study. A total of 922 sound measurements were made and 1062 out of 10724 workers were examined. More than one third (37.5%) of workers worked in locations with noise level in excess of L _eq (8h) 90 dBA. Among examined subjects, 39.8% were exposed to L _eq (8) 90 dBA and above and 18.6% were found to have industrial hearing loss. Multiple logistic regression analyses adjusted for sex and age showed that for hearing loss, the important risk factors were duration of occupational noise exposure, noise intensity, floor vibration and military experience. Current legislation and measures in hearing conservation were inadequate despite the implementation of inspection by the Noise Control Office. Recommendations were directed at amending relevant legislation, increasing supervision of use of personal ear protection, and strengthening health education and audiometric surveillance of exposed workers.     

Assessing the effects of noise abatement measures on health risks: A case study in Istanbul

In recent decades, noise pollution caused by industrialization and increased motorization has become a major concern around the world because of its adverse effects on human well-being. Therefore, transportation agencies have been implementing noise abatement measures in order to reduce road traffic noise. However, limited attention is given to noise in environmental assessment of road transportation systems. This paper presents a framework for a health impact assessment model for road transportation noise emissions. The model allows noise impacts to be addressed with the health effects of air pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions from road transportation. The health damages assessed in the model include annoyance, sleep disturbance, and cardiovascular disease in terms of acute myocardial infarction. The model was applied in a case study in Istanbul in order to evaluate the change in health risks from the implementation of noise abatement strategies. The noise abatement strategies evaluated include altering pavement surfaces in order to absorb noise and introducing speed limits. It was shown that significant improvements in health risks can be achieved using open graded pavement surfaces and introducing speed limits on highways.     

深圳市罗湖区道路交通噪声地图的制作与应用

以 SoundPLAN 软件为依托，将罗湖区城市主干道路及周边地物进行概化、建模，并根据实际监测数据调试参数，制作出罗湖区主干道路噪声分布地图，并对噪声污染严重路段防护措施进行效果模拟，为罗湖区道路交通噪声控制规划和整治以及建设项目审批管理等提供依据。     

Atmospheric vapour phase and particulate phase mercury in a coastal desert climate

Vapour (T-Hg(v)) and particulate (T-Hg(p)) mercury were measured in the lower atmosphere at a ground station in Kuwait Bay. The concentration of T-Hg(v) varied from 0-86 ng m(-3) with a mean of 3.8 +/- 5.5 ng m(-3)(n= 13 326). About 40% of the measured T-Hg(v) values over Kuwait Bay are higher than the global range (1-3 ng m(-3)). Car exhausts contributed to the increase of T-Hg(v) during the rush hours. However the contribution of T-Hg(v) from air crossing Kuwait Bay exceeds that T-Hg(v) produced by traffic probably because of the effects of the substantial load of industrially-derived mercury in the sediments of this shallow region. Thermal inversions have a major impact on the levels during the evening hours. The concentration of T-Hg(p) varied from 0.00-0.22 ng m(-3) with a mean of 0.03 +/- 0.03 ng m(-3)(n= 175). The T-Hg(p)/T-Hg(v)% ratio varied from 0-11.1 (n= 171) with a mean of 1.0 +/- 1.5%. Meteorological parameters influence the T-Hg(v) and T-Hg(p) concentrations with dust storms having a major impact on T-Hg(p) concentrations.     

Noise pollution in textile,printing and publishing industries in Saudi Arabia

A study of 20 factories belonging to textile, printing, publishing and paper products industries in Jeddah was conducted.Data on Leq, Maximum and Minimum SPL at different octave bands, as well as dBA, were collected. It has been found that textile,publishing and paper products industries are the most noisy industries. The paper is concluded with suitable recommendationfor noise control and worker protection.     

Evolution of building façade road traffic noise levels in Flanders

The evolution of daytime fa?ade noise levels by road traffic at 250 dwellings in Flanders is assessed. Three identical man-operated measurement campaigns have been conducted in the years 1996, 2001 and 2009, during fall. A practical methodology has been developed, based on short time noise measurements and context observations at these locations. The uncertainty introduced by short-term sampling has been quantified as a function of the noise level. Furthermore, a correction is proposed for measuring at a random moment during daytime. Analysis of the data showed that road traffic noise levels hardly changed globally over this period of 13 years. The distribution of changes in noise level at corresponding measurement locations is nevertheless rather wide-all improvements are equally compensated by increases in noise levels at other locations. The percentage of the dwelling fa?ades exposed to daytime noise levels above 65 dBA has increased slightly between 1996 and 2001, but seems to stagnate in 2009. In spite of the increased interest and actions of policy makers during the past decades, noise exposure caused by road traffic at dwelling fa?ades is a persistent problem.     

Latitudinal and longitudinal variations in the impact of air pollution on well-being in China

Air pollution has resulted in high costs of living due to additional expenditures to combat the negative health effects, and the relationship between air pollution and well-being is of burgeoning interest. In this paper, the development and life index including 42 indicators is introduced to measure much broader dimensions of well-being in China at the macro level, which helps to compare the well-being of different regions. This paper uses provincial-level panel data from 2004 to 2013 in China, to empirically analyze and compare the impact of air pollution on well-being in latitudinal and longitudinal settings, based on regression methods, such as 2SLS, LIML, GMM and IGMM. The results show that although increased air pollution negatively affects well-being in general, the magnitude of the impact differs by region. Specifically, in China's northern regions, air pollution had a significantly negative impact on well-being, while the negative impact was weaker in southern China; moreover, a strong negative impact was found in western China, while a weak negative impact was found in eastern and central China. The time effect was also found to influence air pollution. Finally, this paper found that the natural birth rate and income level served as functional mechanisms of the effect of air pollution on regional well-being. These findings are useful in guiding government policy for determining the optimal balance between air quality control for economic growth and regional well-being.     

Traffic noise assessment based on mobile measurements

Continuous noise monitoring based on mobile systems could provide a quick feedback to assess the effect of policies implemented by authorities to mitigate noise pollution. The present research verifies that mobile measurements taken along a main street and aggregated in time and space can accurately estimate noise levels at static points. As a consequence, mobile sensors would be suitable to build, and continuously update, noise maps. Furthermore, the experiment computes the optimum aggregation distance of the mobile measurements.To perform the mobile noise measurements, a low-cost noise sensor with an integrated GPS was mounted on a bicycle. One hour worth of measurements was taken along a main avenue with the mobile receiver simultaneously to 6 static measurement points. For the mobile receiver, the L_Aeq was computed aggregating samples within a radius from 1 m to 100 m around the static measurement points. Then, the error between the aggregated L_Aeq of the mobile and the static receivers for the same time period was computed. It is observed that the RMSE and the measurement uncertainties decrease as the aggregation distance increases, having a minimum at an aggregation radius of 33 m and reaching a stabilization due to the constant traffic of the studied street.     

On the ability of consumer electronics microphones for environmental noise monitoring

The massive production of microphones for consumer electronics, and the shift from dedicated processing hardware to PC-based systems, opens the way to build affordable, extensive noise measurement networks. Applications include e.g. noise limit and urban soundscape monitoring, and validation of calculated noise maps. Microphones are the critical components of such a network. Therefore, in a first step, some basic characteristics of 8 microphones, distributed over a wide range of price classes, were measured in a standardized way in an anechoic chamber. In a next step, a thorough evaluation was made of the ability of these microphones to be used for environmental noise monitoring. This was done during a continuous, half-year lasting outdoor experiment, characterized by a wide variety of meteorological conditions. While some microphones failed during the course of this test, it was shown that it is possible to identify cheap microphones that highly correlate to the reference microphone during the full test period. When the deviations are expressed in total A-weighted (road traffic) noise levels, values of less than 1 dBA are obtained, in excess to the deviation amongst reference microphones themselves.     

广州市街道空气中四氯化碳、三氯乙烯和四氯乙烯的暴露特征

该此研究分别于5月和8月在广州市主要的交通干道进行空气样品采集,并运用吹扫-捕集GC-MSD系统对其进行定性和定量分析。文章对样品中的四氯化碳、三氯乙烯和四氯乙烯等卤代烃化合物在街道微环境中的浓度水平;化合物含量的月、周末与非周末、上午与下午等的时间变化和新旧城区的空间分布特征进行了探讨。     

Sampling approaches to predict urban street noise levels using fixed and temporary microphones

Requirements for static (prediction of L(den) and diurnal averaged noise pattern) and dynamic (prediction of 15 min and 60 min evolution of L(Aeq) and statistical levels L(A90,)L(A50) and L(A10)) noise level monitoring are investigated in this paper. Noise levels are measured for 72 consecutive days at 5 neighboring streets in an inner-city noise measurement network in Gent, Flanders, Belgium. We present a method to make predictions based on a fixed monitoring station, combined with short-term sampling at temporary stations. It is shown that relying on a fixed station improves the estimation of L(den) at other locations, and allows for the reduction of the number of samples needed and their duration; L(den) is estimated with an error that does not exceed 1.5 dB(A) to 3.4 dB(A) according to the location, for 90% of the 3 × 15 min samples. Also the diurnal averaged noise pattern can be estimated with a good accuracy in this way. It was shown that there is an optimal location for the fixed station which can be found by short-term measurements only. Short-term level predictions were shown to be more difficult; 7 day samples were needed to build models able to estimate the evolution of L(Aeq,60min) with a RMSE ranging between 1.4 dB(A) and 3.7 dB(A). These higher values can be explained by the very pronounced short-term variations appearing in typical streets, which are not correlated between locations. On the other hand, moderately accurate predictions can be achieved, even based on short-term sampling (a 3 × 15 minute sampling duration seems to be sufficient for many of the accuracy goals set related to static and dynamic monitoring). Finally, the method proposed also allows for the prediction of the evolution of statistical indicators.     

《建筑施工场界噪声限值》与《建筑施工场界噪声测量方法》两标准需修订

目前使用的《建筑施工场界噪声限值》(GB1 2 52 3 -90 )标准与《建筑施工场界噪声测量方法》(GB1 2 52 4 -90 )标准和当前的环境管理与环境监测工作已不相适应 ,需重新修订。以利于环境管理和环境监测工作的需要。给人们提供一个安静的生活环境。