Investigation Noise pollution and health effects due to Roadway in Ahvaz city during 2013

Background: Among the environmental pollutions, noise pollution, due to the potential physiological and psychological effects on humans, is of a particular importance. Noise is a stressor that affects the autonomic nervous system and the endocrine system. Health risks from noise associated with road traffic. Noise health effects are the health consequences of elevated sound levels.Objectives: The aim of this study is determination of noise pollution and health effects due to near roadway in Ahvaz, Iran.Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, Equivalent sound pressure level were measured by sound level meters TES -1353 in 75 points in 4 roadways which have high density of traffic in Ahvaz city during day time. In them, at measuring stations, on 4 days of week, at three time periods totally 1038 measurements were recorded that including 6 parameters of traffic noise and each measurement was recorded for 30 minutes. SPSS software’s were applied for statistical analysis.Results: According to the research findings, the equivalent sound pressure levels in all stations were equal to 80/58 - 5/38 dB. Sound measurements and the survey questionnaire, noise pollution is higher than EPA and Iran standard level. Based on result of this study the highest noise health effects were the nervousness and sleep quality.Conclusion: According to the results of this study, increasing trends of traffic load there is an increasing need for proper consideration plans organizations. So, it should seriously be taken into consideration in order to control noise and prevent the effects.

Keywords:

Noise pollution , health effects , Equivalent Sound Level , Ahvaz