Noise annoyance, sociodemographic and health patterns, and neighborhood perceptions in a Brazilian metropolis: BH Health Study / Percepção do ruído como incômodo, características sociodemográficas, de saúde e percepção da vizinhança em uma metrópole brasileira: Estudo Saúde em Beagá

ABSTRACT Objective: The present study aims to analyze the association of noise annoyance with individual and sociodemographic factors and self-perception of the neighborhood in an urban center. Methods: Data were collected through a population-based cross-sectional study held in two of the nine health districts in the city of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from 2008 to 2009. The study included 3,934 individuals of both genders, aged 18 years and older. The response variable was the self-perception of noise, investigated by the question: "In your neighborhood, does the noise bother you?" The explanatory variables were grouped into the following domains: sociodemographic, social determinants, self-rated health, and self-reported diseases. Results: The prevalence of noise annoyance was 47% for women and 39.8% for men. For both genders, noise annoyance was independently associated with bad traffic and the presence of loud music, discussions, and late-night parties. Conclusion: Gender differences were identified in the association of noise annoyance with sociodemographic characteristics and self-reported morbidity. Traffic and social customs were the main sources of noise in the regions under study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a associação entre o incômodo provocado pelo ruído com fatores individuais e sociodemográficos e a autopercepção de vizinhança em um centro urbano. Métodos: Os dados foram coletados por meio de um estudo transversal de base populacional, desenvolvido em dois dos nove distritos sanitários do município de Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, no período de 2008 a 2009. Participaram do estudo 3.934 indivíduos, de ambos os sexos, com 18 anos ou mais. A variável resposta foi a autopercepção do ruído, investigada pela pergunta: "Pensando na sua vizinhança o ruído/barulho incomoda você?". As variáveis explicativas foram agrupadas nos seguintes domínios: sociodemográfico, determinantes sociais, autoavaliação de saúde e autorrelato de doenças. Resultados: Para as mulheres, a prevalência do incômodo ao ruído foi de 47%, e para os homens, foi de 39,8%. Para ambos os sexos, o incômodo ao ruído foi independentemente associado ao trânsito ruim e presença de música alta, discussões e festas até tarde. Conclusões: Diferenças entre os sexos foram observadas para associação entre o incômodo ao ruído, características sociodemográficas e morbidade autorreferida. O trânsito e os costumes sociais se configuraram como a principal fonte geradora de ruído nas regiões estudadas.

Ruido en el ambiente laboral y efectos en sistema cardiovascular en operadores de transporte público / Workplace noise and cardiovascular effects in public transportation drivers

La exposición a ruido tiene un potencial importante para causar daños a la salud de los trabajadores con efectos auditivos y extra auditivos. El objetivo de la presente investigación fue determinar los niveles de ruido a los que se encuentran expuestos los trabajadores del transporte público de la ciudad de Chihuahua, México, durante la jornada laboral y su asociación con los posibles efectos en la presión arterial. Para ello, se realizaron mediciones de ruido en el ambiente laboral con un dosímetro. Para la medición de presión arterial se utilizó el monitor ambulatorio, el cual mide la presión arterial durante el desarrollo de las actividades laborales. Los parámetros bioquímicos que se midieron fueron colesterol y triglicéridos en ayunas. Con base en los resultados y al análisis de datos se encontró elevada la presión arterial (hipertensión), ruido inestable con variaciones de hasta 106.7 decibeles A (dB A) y un aumento en los lípidos en sangre (triglicéridos). Los resultados nos permiten proponer que la constante exposición al ruido de los choferes de transporte público, es un factor de riesgo importante para el desarrollo de alta presión arterial y un incremento en los niveles de triglicéridos, lo que aumenta el riesgo de sufrir enfermedades cardiovasculares(AU)

Occupational noise exposure can lead to both hearing and non-hearing effects on workers' health. The objective of this study was to measure ambient noise levels that public transportation workers in Chihuahua, Mexico are exposed to, and their association with blood pressure, using a standard noise level dosimeter. We used ambulatory monitors to measure blood pressure over the work shift, and also measured serum cholesterol and triglycerides. Noise levels varied widely, with peaks up to 106.7 decibels (A-scale); we also found elevated blood pressure and triglycerides. Our results suggest that, among public transportation drivers, continuous exposure to noise is a risk factor for elevated blood pressure and triglycerides which, in turn, are risk factors for cardiovascular disease(AU)

O mapa de ruído como instrumento de planejamento: o caso da poluição sonora causada pelos automóveis no município de São Paulo / The noise mapping how instrument of planning: the case of noise pollution caused by automobiles in the city of São Paulo

A poluição sonora oriunda do tráfego de automóveis é hoje um dos mais importantes problemas ambientais das cidades, e de sobremodo, uma questão de saúde pública. Nesta pesquisa são avaliados os ruídos dos automóveis nos receptores da Macroárea de Estruturação Metropolitana Arco Tietê no município de São Paulo, demonstrando a aplicação do mapa de ruído para o planejamento e para a gestão urbana, em especial, em áreas onde são propostas intervenções para o adensamento populacional. A criação do mapa de ruído urbano, quando integrado ao Plano Diretor e à Lei de Parcelamento, Uso e Ocupação do Solo, permite que se planeje a cidade da forma mais adequada, de acordo com a realidade encontrada, evitando ou definindo ações para as zonas de conflito entre a realidade e o legislado. Ademais, o mapa de ruído serve para a identificação de áreas sensíveis, podendo definir objetivos para o controle do ruído e traçar tendências desejáveis para determinadas áreas. No município de São Paulo, os dados de trânsito do programa EMME-2 da Companhia de Engenharia de Tráfego (CET) e os dados de tráfego dos ônibus urbanos da São Paulo Transportes (SPTrans) permitem a realização do mapa de ruído em cenários distintos, tanto para verificar a situação atual como uma situação futura pretendida, inclusive para avaliação dos métodos de mitigação do ruído

The noise pollution from car traffics is today one of the most important environmental problems of the cities, and above all, a question of public health. In this research it is evaluated the car noises at the receptors of the Macro-area of the Arco Tietê Metropolitan Structuring (Macroárea de Estruturação Metropolitana Arco Tietê) in São Paulo Municipality, demonstrating the application of the noise map for the urban planning and management, especially, in the areas where it is proposed interventions for the population density. The creation of the urban noise map, when integrated with the Master Plan and the Law of Parceling, Use and Occupation of the Land (Lei de Parcelamento, Uso e Ocupação do Solo), allows to plan the city in a more suitable way, in accordance with the observed reality, avoiding or defining actions to the conflicting zones between the reality and the legislated ones. In addition, the noise map helps to identify the sensible areas, and it could even define goals to control the noises and draw desirable tendencies to certain areas. In São Paulo Municipality, the EMME-2 traffic programme data from "Companhia de Engenharia de Tráfego" (CET) (Traffic Engineering Company) and the traffic data of São Paulo Transport urban buses (SPTrans) allow the making of the noise map at different scenarios, as to verify the current situation as to an intended future area, including the assessment of noise mitigation methods

Avaliação da exposição ambiental ao monóxido de carbono, material particulado e ao ruído no Terminal Central de Transporte Coletivo de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais / Environmental Exposure assessment to carbon monoxide, particulate matter and noise in the Central Public Transport Terminal of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais

Introdução: A exposição aos poluentes derivados do desenvolvimento urbano tem sido de grande preocupação para a Saúde Pública. Em Uberlândia - MG, o Terminal Central de Transporte Coletivo de Uberlândia (TCTU) recebe diariamente grande quantidade de usuários, além dos trabalhadores, que estão diretamente expostos aos riscos causados por contaminantes atmosféricos e ruído. Objetivo: Avaliar a exposição ambiental ao monóxido de carbono (CO), material particulado (MP10) e produção de ruído. Métodos: A exposição foi analisada por meio da coleta de dados das concentrações dos poluentes nas plataformas de embarque do TCTU. Resultados: Os níveis de poluição atmosférica e sonora encontrados não ultrapassaram os limites estabelecidos nas resoluções adotadas pelo município, entretanto, as emissões de ruído ultrapassaram o critério para incômodo e perda auditiva da Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS). Conclusões: O ambiente avaliado não oferece conforto acústico para seus usuários e trabalhadores; evidencia-se, então, a necessidade do uso de equipamentos de proteção coletiva e individual para que se evitem danos à saúde dos trabalhadores e aos usuários. O estudo reforça a necessidade de reavaliação de parâmetros e leis que melhorem a qualidade de vida dos indivíduos expostos aos riscos da poluição sonora e atmosférica nos terminais de transporte coletivo. (AU)

Introduction: The exposure to pollution, resulting from urban development, has been of great concern in terms of public health. In Uberlândia - MG, the Terminal Central de Transporte Coletivo de Uberlândia (TCTU) receives daily a large number of users, besides employees, who are directly exposed to the risks caused by atmospheric pollution and noise. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the environmental exposure to carbon monoxide (CO), particulate matter (PM10) and noise production. Methods: The exposure will be evaluated through the data collection of polluting concentrations in the TCTU boarding platforms. Results: The values found for atmospheric pollution remained below the established limits. The findings have not gone beyond the limits established in the resolutions adopted by the municipality, but exceeded the criteria for discomfort and hearing loss of the World Health Organization (WHO). Conclusion: The evaluated ambience offers no acoustic comfort to its users and workers, therefore the need for the use of collective and personal protective equipment becomes evident, in order to avoid damage to the worker's health and users of transport system. This article aims at showing the need for assessment of the effects of pollutants in the organism, and the review of the parameters and laws that improve the quality of life of individuals exposed to the risks. (AU)

Estudio Transversal: Hipoacusia Laboral Inducida por Ruido en Personal de Aeronáutica del Ejército Ecuatoriano y Factores Asociados. Quito ­ Ecuador, 2014 - 2016 / Cross-sectional research: Noise-induced Occupational Hypoacusis in Aeronautical Personnel of the Ecuadorian Army and Associated Factors. Quito - Ecuador, 2014 - 2016

INTRODUCCIÓN: La hipoacusia laboral inducida por ruido es una patología ocupacional frecuente, responsable de pérdidas de la audición sino se controla a tiempo. El objetivo del estudio fue establecer la prevalencia de hipoacusia laboral inducida por ruido y factores relacionados en el personal de aeronáutica del ejército. MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal analítico en el personal tripulación del ejército ecuatoriano, Quito ­ Ecuador, período 2014 ­ 2016 que relacionó asociación causal entre hipoacusia laboral inducida por ruido con variables como edad, función, rango, antecedentes de hipoacusia en el servicio militar. Se trabajó con todo el personal de vuelo, 112 militares en servicio activo. RESULTADOS: El promedio de edad fue de 37 años. Todos eran varones. El 55.4 % pertenecía a tropa y 44. 6 % eran oficiales. El 44.6 % eran pilotos; 28.6 % mecánicos y 26.8 % ingenieros de vuelo. La prevalencia de hipoacusia general fue del 35.6 %; la de hipoacusia unilateral fue del 19.6 % y de la bilateral del 16 %. La frecuencia de antecedentes de hipoacusia laboral asociada a ruido en la aeronáutica fue del 60.7 %. La prevalencia de hipoacusia leve fue del 17.8 %; moderada con 6.7 % y severa con 1.35 %. Las variables asociadas a hipoacusia laboral inducida por ruido en el personal militar en funciones de vuelo fueron: la edad, el rango, la función y antecedentes de hipoacusia. El oído izquierdo suele afectarse más que el derecho. La hipoacusia bilateral más frecuente fue la leve derecha con agudeza normal izquierda (10.7 %). CONCLUSIONES: La hipoacusia laboral inducida por ruido es multifactorial y puede ser reversible si se detiene el causal o si se llevan a cabo medidas de protección adecuadas. El nivel de hipoacusia en el personal militar de vuelo tiene asociación con: la edad, el rango, la función y los antecedentes de hipoacusia laboral en funciones de vuelo.

BACKGROUND: Hearing loss is induced by noise in job and is a frequent illness, responsible of hearing loss if it is not controlled on time. The aim of this study is establish the prevalence of hearing loss and related factors in army aviation personnel. METHODS: An analytical cross - sectional study of the Ecuadorian army crew, Quito - Ecuador, between 2014 and 2016, which related a causal association between hearing loss induced by noise in job with variables such as age, function, rank and backgrounds of hearing loss in military service. It worked with all the personnel of flight 112 military in active service. RESULTS: The mean age was 37 years. All were male. 55.4% belonged to troops and 44. 6 % were officers. 44.6 % were pilots; 28.6 % were mechanics and 26.8 % were flight engineers. The prevalence of general hearing loss was 35.6 %. The prevalence of unilateral hearing loss was 19.6 % and bilateral prevalence was 16 %. The frequency of antecedents of occupational hearing loss associated with aviation noise in this staff was of 60.7 %. The prevalence of mild hearing loss was 17.85 %; moderate hearing loss 6.7 % and severe of 1.35 %, no profound hearing loss was reported. The variables associated with decreased auditory acuity are: age, aviation exercise time, range, function, and history of hearing loss within the aeronautical field. Bilateral damage has a statistical tendency with age and association with the range. No deep hearing loss was found. CONCLUSION: Noise-induced occupational hearing loss is multifactorial and may be reversible if the cause is stopped or appropriate protective measures are taken. The level of hearing loss in military flight personnel has an association with: age, range, function, and history of occupational hearing loss in flight functions.

Effect of a major highway on the spatial and temporal variation in the structure and diversity of the avifauna of a tropical premontane rain forest / Efecto de una carretera principal en la variación espacial y temporal en la estructura y la diversidad de la avifauna de un bosque lluvioso tropical premontano

Abstract:Roads immersed in conservation areas will increase in number, size, and traffic over the next decade, and thus, understanding their effects on forest-dependent wildlife is crucial for improving current management practices and reducing the negative impacts of roads on sensitive species. We examined the influence of route 32 (a.k.a. Guápiles Highway) on temporal and spatial changes in the structure of the avifauna of Braulio Carrillo National Park, Costa Rica, a site crossed by this road along 25 km. The highway connects the capital city of San José with the Harbor of Limón in the Caribbean Sea (142 km). Although the road is narrow (12 m in width and comprised by two lanes along most of the route) it services over 1.5 million motor vehicles per year, 12 % are heavy trucks and trailers. We expected the highway to divide the avifauna, and thus to observe significant differences in species structure on opposite sides of the road. We described changes in bird diversity between wet and dry seasons at Las Palmas and Ceibo trails located on opposite sides of the highway (14 point counts per trail), and evaluated how abundance and diversity varied with road distance. Censuses took place during wet and dry seasons from 2002 to 2005. We listed 245 species and 6 035 observations during the 4-yr survey. Rare species dominated the avifauna (65 % of species < 5 observations), and species overlap between trails was high (Sorensen= 71 %; Morisita= 0.96). Species accumulation curves varied little among trails, yielding 190 species. Resident species represented 70 % of observations, followed by elevational (15 %) and long-distance migrants (1-2 %). Understory species were the most abundant (60 %) followed by canopy birds (30 %). Species turnover rate was 55 % between seasons, but species composition between trails remained homogeneous. Overall, birds were avoiding the road (abundance increased away from the road) although other diversity parameters (richness, dominance, Shannon index, and equitability) were not influenced by road proximity. Although the avifauna remained homogeneous on both sides of the road, which did not support the fragmentation hypothesis, the highway reduced the abundance and diversity of specialized understory insectivores associated with primary forests near the road. This highway will expand outside the National Park (from 2 to 4 lanes along 107 km from Río Frío to Limón) in the next years, which will increase traffic volume and road impacts within the Park. Roads are increasing across highly diverse tropical areas justifying the need for management practices based on the identification of sensitive groups. Rev. Biol. Trop. 64 (4): 1383-1399. Epub 2016 December 01.

Resumen:Las carreteras inmersas en áreas de conservación van a aumentar en número, tamaño, y volumen de tráfico en la próxima década, por lo que comprender los efectos de las mismas sobre la fauna dependiente de bosque es crucial para mejorar las prácticas de manejo y reducir los impactos negativos de los caminos sobre las especies más frágiles. Examinamos la influencia de la ruta 32 (conocida como la carretera a Guápiles) sobre los cambios temporales y espaciales en la estructura de la avifauna del Parque Nacional Braulio Carrillo, Costa Rica, el cual es atravesado por esta carretera a lo largo de 25 km. La carretera conecta la ciudad capital de San José con el puerto de Limón en el Caribe (142 km). Aunque la calle es estrecha (12 m de ancho en dos carriles en la mayor parte de la ruta) da servicio a más de 1.5 millones de vehículos por año, 12 % de los cuales es transporte pesado. Esperábamos que la carretera fragmentara a la avifauna, y por lo tanto que hubieran diferencias significativas en la estructura de las especies en lados opuestos de la ruta. Describimos los cambios en la diversidad de aves entre las estaciones secas y húmedas en los senderos Las Palmas y Ceibo situados en lados opuestos de la carretera (14 puntos de conteo por sendero), y evaluamos cómo la abundancia y la diversidad variaron con la distancia hacia la carretera. Los censos se realizaron durante las estaciones húmedas y secas desde el 2002 al 2005. Encontramos 245 especies y 6 035 observaciones durante el período de 4 años. Las especies raras dominaron la avifauna (65 % de las especies < 5 observaciones), y mostraron un alto traslape entre senderos (Sorensen= 71 %; Morisita= 0.96). Las curvas de acumulación de especies variaron poco entre senderos, generando 190 especies. Las especies residentes representaron el 70 % de las observaciones, seguidas migrantes de elevación (15 %) y especies migratorias latitudinales (1-2 %). Las especies de sotobos que fueron las más abundantes (60 %), seguidas por las aves de dosel (30 %). La tasa de recambio de especies fue del 55 % entre estaciones, pero la composición de especies entre senderos permaneció homogénea. El patrón general consistió en que las aves evitaron la carretera (la abundancia aumentó lejos de la carretera), aunque otros parámetros de diversidad (riqueza, dominancia, el índice de Shannon y la equidad) no fueron influenciados por la proximidad de la calle. Si bien los resultados no apoyaron la hipótesis de la fragmentación, la carretera redujo la abundancia y diversidad de insectívoros especializados de sotobosque asociados a bosque primario. Esta carretera se expandirá fuera del Parque Nacional (de 2 a 4 carriles a lo largo de 107 km de Río Frío a Limón) en los próximos años, lo que aumentará el impacto del volumen de tráfico dentro del parque. Las carreteras cercanas a zonas protegidas están aumentando en los trópicos, por lo que es crucial desarrollar alternativas de manejo basadas en la respuesta de los grupos sensibles a estos impactos.

Background noise analysis in urban airport surroundings of Brazilian cities, Congonhas Airport, São Paulo / Análise do ruído de fundo no entorno de aeroportos urbanos em cidades brasileiras, Aeroporto de Congonhas, São Paulo

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To perform a quantitative analysis of the background noise at Congonhas Airport surroundings based on large sampling and measurements with no interruption. METHODS Measuring sites were chosen from 62 and 72 DNL (day-night-level) noise contours, in urban sites compatible with residential use. Fifteen sites were monitored for at least 168 hours without interruption or seven consecutive days. Data compilation was based on cross-reference between noise measurements and air traffic control records, and results were validated by airport meteorological reports. Preliminary diagnoses were established using the standard NBR-13368. Background noise values were calculated based on the Sound Exposure Level (SEL). Statistic parameters were calculated in one-hour intervals. RESULTS Only four of the fifteen sites assessed presented aircraft operations as a clear cause for the noise annoyance. Even so, it is possible to detect background noise levels above regulation limits during periods of low airport activity or when it closes at night. CONCLUSIONS All the sites monitored showed background noise levels above regulation limits between 7:00 and 21:00. In the intervals between 6:00-6:59 and 21:00-22:59 the noise data, when analyzed with the current airport operational characteristics, still allow the development of additional mitigating measures.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Avaliar quantitativamente o ruído de fundo no entorno do aeroporto de Congonhas, com base em ampla amostragem e medições sem interrupção. MÉTODOS Locais de medição escolhidos a partir de curvas de ruído de 62 e 72 LDN (day-night level), em equipamentos urbanos de uso compatível com o residencial. Quinze locais foram avaliados por mais de 168 horas consecutivas cada um (sete dias). A compilação baseou-se em cruzamentos de dados do controle de tráfego aéreo e os resultados foram validados por meio de relatórios meteorológicos do aeroporto. Diagnósticos preliminares foram estabelecidos utilizando a NBR-13368. O ruído de fundo foi calculado com base no Sound Exposure Level (SEL). Os parâmetros estatísticos foram calculados em intervalos de uma hora. RESULTADOS Apenas quatro dos 15 locais avaliados apresentaram clara contribuição da operação de aeronaves no incômodo. Mesmo assim, é possível identificar ruído de fundo acima do regulamentar durante os períodos de baixa atividade ou de fechamento do aeroporto durante a noite. CONCLUSÕES Todos os locais avaliados apresentaram ruído de fundo acima do regulamentar entre 7:00h e 21:00h. Nos intervalos entre 6:00h-6:59h e 21:00h-22:59h, os dados de monitoramento, quando analisados em conjunto com as atuais características operacionais do aeroporto, ainda possibilitam a elaboração de medidas mitigadoras adicionais.

Sistema de apoio à avaliação de impactos da poluição sonora sobre a saúde pública / Sistema de apoyo a la evaluación del impacto del ruido sobre la salud pública / A system for evaluating the impact of noise pollution on the population's health

Resumo: O objetivo do trabalho foi desenvolver um sistema de apoio à avaliação da poluição sonora, aplicado na zona central de Rio Claro, São Paulo, Brasil. Para isso, dados foram obtidos por meio de medições sonoras e entrevistas com a população, gerando como indicadores o nível sonoro equivalente (Leq ), o índice de ruído de tráfego (LTNI ) e um diagnóstico participativo (Dp ), integrados por intermédio de um sistema de inferência fuzzy (SIF). Como resultado, o sistema proposto permitiu classificar os pontos avaliados quanto ao grau de impacto da poluição sonora sobre a saúde da população (IPS ) na área de estudo, que pode ser considerado significativo em 31,4% dos pontos e muito significativo em 62,9%. A possibilidade de adequar o SIF de acordo com as condições de estudo viabiliza a sua generalização e, desta forma, apoia a avaliação e respectiva gestão do ruído ambiental em outras regiões.

Resumen: El objetivo del trabajo fue desarrollar un sistema de apoyo a la evaluación de la contaminación acústica, aplicado en la zona central de Río Claro, São Paulo, Brasil. Con este fin, se obtuvieron datos mediante mediciones sonoras y entrevistas a la población, generando como indicadores el nivel sonoro equivalente (Leq ), el índice de ruido de tráfico (LTNI ) y un diagnóstico participativo (Dp ), integrados a través de un sistema de inferencia fuzzy (SIF). Como resultado, el sistema propuesto permitió clasificar los puntos evaluados, en cuanto al grado de impacto de la contaminación sonora sobre la salud de la población (IPS ) en el área de estudio, que puede ser considerado significativo en un 31,4% de los puntos y muy significativo en un 62,9%. La posibilidad de adecuar el SIF, de acuerdo a las condiciones de estudio, viabiliza su generalización y, de esta forma, puede apoyar la evaluación y consiguiente gestión del ruido ambiental en otras regiones.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to develop a support system for the evaluation of noise pollution, applied to the central urban area of Rio Claro, São Paulo State, Brazil. Data were obtained from noise measurements and interviews with the population, generating the following indicators: equivalent sound level (Leq ), traffic noise index (LTNI ), and a participatory diagnosis (Dp ), integrated through a fuzzy inference system (FIS). The proposed system allowed classifying the measurement points according to the degree of impact of noise pollution on the population's health (IPS ) in the study area. Impact was considered significant in 31.4% of the measurement points and very significant in 62.9%. The FIS can be adjusted to local conditions, allowing generalization and thus also supporting noise pollution evaluation and respective environmental noise management in other geographic areas.

Poluição sonora urbana: a influência de modificações em escapamentos de motocicletas na emissão de ruído / Urban noise pollution influence of modifications on exhaust systems for noise emission

A poluição sonora urbana, em especial a gerada por motocicletas com escapamentos modificados, afeta indistintamente a saúde de toda população de diversas maneiras e tende a aumentar, ao contrário da emissão de gases, que vem se reduzindo ao longo dos anos. Com o objetivo de conter o ruído gerado pelo tráfego urbano, vários países desenvolvem procedimentos, leis e ações mitigatórias como barreiras acústicas e asfaltos fonoabsorventes, porém há grande quantidade de motocicletas, veículo tipicamente de alto potencial de incômodo e ruidoso, que circulam com sistemas de escapamento adulterados e emitem ainda mais excesso de ruído. A inspeção veicular é ferramenta importante no controle de emissões de gases poluentes de veículos em uso, mas falha em restringir aqueles que ultrapassam os limites legais de ruído e, somado a isto, há o agravante de o condutor submeter-se a poluição sonora que ele mesmo produz. A fiscalização de rua surge como alternativa de controle ambiental, mas algumas vezes é contestada por ser subjetiva ou por faltar uma metodologia simples, confiável e eficaz

The urban noise pollution, in particular the one produced for motorcycles with tampered exhaust systems, affects indistinctly the health of all people in many ways and tends to grow up, in opposite to gaseous emissions, that is getting down through years. With the goal of mitigate noise generated from urban traffic, many countries develop procedures, laws and actions as acoustic barrier and phono absorbent asphalt, but there are still a great amount of motorcycles, typically a high annoying and noisy vehicle, running with tampered mufflers and producing excessive noise. In use vehicle inspection is an important tool on gaseous emissions control but fails to restrain excessive noise, a problem that get worse up due the rider is subjects him-herself to the own sound pollution. Roadside control comes as an alternative but sometimes is rejected as subjective or due a lack of a simple, easy, trustable method. This research looks for the relationship between increased sound level of modified motorcycles in traffic and noise emission in inspection mode, also known as stationary noise, to bring subsidies to develop more efficient control methods. For this, it were evaluated motorcycles for traffic and stationary noise emission and the results point that modified exhaust systems have a very higher sound level than original mufflers, with strong relationship between these two measurement methods

Perda auditiva em trabalhadores do transporte urbano na Região Metropolitana de Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil / Hearing loss in urban transportation workers in Greater Metropolitan Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais State, Brazil / Pérdida auditiva en los trabajadores del transporte urbano de la región Metropolitana de Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil

Objetivou-se verificar a associação entre o diagnóstico de perda auditiva autorrelatado por trabalhadores do transporte urbano da Região Metropolitana de Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil, e fatores individuais e ocupacionais. O tamanho da amostra foi calculado por quotas e estratificado por ocupação (motoristas e cobradores) nas empresas de Belo Horizonte, Betim e Contagem. A coleta de dados foi realizada face a face com o auxílio de netbooks pelos entrevistadores. A variável resposta foi definida pela resposta positiva à pergunta sobre a vigência de diagnóstico médico de perda auditiva. As variáveis independentes foram organizadas em 3 blocos: características sociodemográficas, estilo de vida e aspectos do trabalho. O diagnóstico de perda auditiva foi mencionado por 213 dos 1.527 trabalhadores e esteve associado à idade e ao diagnóstico de zumbido. Na esfera ocupacional, destacaram-se o absenteísmo-doença, antiguidade no cargo e dois riscos ambientais: ruído insuportável e vibração de corpo inteiro. Medidas de prevenção da perda auditiva para os trabalhadores do transporte urbano são necessárias.

This study analyzed the association between self-reported diagnosis of hearing loss and individual and occupational factors among urban transportation workers in Greater Metropolitan Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. The sample size was calculated by quotas and stratified by occupation (drivers and fare collectors) in the urban transportation companies in Belo Horizonte, Betim, and Contagem. Data were collected with face-to-face interviews and recorded by the interviewers on netbooks. The dependent variable was defined as an affirmative response to the question on prevailing medical diagnosis of hearing loss. The independent variables were organized in three blocks: social and demographic characteristics, lifestyle, and work aspects. Diagnosis of hearing loss was reported by 213 of the 1,527 workers and was associated with age and diagnosis of tinnitus. At the occupational level, hearing loss was associated with history of sick leave, time-on-the-job, and two environmental risks, unbearable noise and whole-body vibration. Measures to prevent hearing loss are needed for urban transportation workers.

El objetivo del presente trabajo es verificar la asociación entre el diagnóstico de la pérdida auditiva autoinformado por trabajadores del transporte urbano de la Región Metropolitana de Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil, y factores individuales y ocupacionales. El tamaño de la muestra fue calculado por cuotas y estratificación por ocupación (conductores y cobradores) en las empresas de Belo Horizonte, Betim y Contagem. La variable respuesta fue definida por la respuesta positiva a la pregunta sobre la vigencia de diagnóstico médico de pérdida auditiva. Se organizaron las variables independientes en tres bloques: características sociodemográficas, estilo de vida y aspectos del trabajo. De los 1527 trabajadores, 213 mencionaron el diagnóstico de pérdida auditiva, que se mostró asociado a la edad y al diagnóstico del zumbido. En la esfera ocupacional, se destacaron el absentismo-enfermedad, antigüedad en el cargo y dos riesgos ambientales: ruido excesivo y vibración del cuerpo entero. Es necesario que se tomen medidas para prevenir la pérdida auditiva de los trabajadores del transporte urbano.

Audiometric profile of civilian pilots according to noise exposure / Perfil audiométrico segundo exposição de pilotos civis ao ruído

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the audiometric profile of civilian pilots according to the noise exposure level. METHODS This observational cross-sectional study evaluated 3,130 male civilian pilots aged between 17 and 59 years. These pilots were subjected to audiometric examinations for obtaining or revalidating the functional capacity certificate in 2011. The degree of hearing loss was classified as normal, suspected noise-induced hearing loss, and no suspected hearing loss with other associated complications. Pure-tone air-conduction audiometry was performed using supra-aural headphones and acoustic stimulus of the pure-tone type, containing tone thresholds of frequencies between 250 Hz and 6,000 Hz. The independent variables were professional categories, length of service, hours of flight, and right or left ear. The dependent variable was pilots with suspected noise-induced hearing loss. The noise exposure level was considered low/medium or high, and the latter involved periods > 5,000 flight hours and > 10 years of flight service. RESULTS A total of 29.3% pilots had suspected noise-induced hearing loss, which was bilateral in 12.8% and predominant in the left ear (23.7%). The number of pilots with suspected hearing loss increased as the noise exposure level increased. CONCLUSIONS Hearing loss in civilian pilots may be associated with noise exposure during the period of service and hours of flight. .

OBJETIVO Analisar o perfil audiométrico de pilotos civis segundo grau de exposição ao ruído. MÉTODOS Trata-se de um estudo observacional, transversal, com 3.130 pilotos civis do sexo masculino de 17 a 59 anos submetidos a exames audiométricos iniciais ou de revalidação de Certificado de Capacidade Física em 2011. Os sujeitos foram categorizados segundo perda auditiva como: normais, sugestivos de perda auditiva induzida por ruído, e outros fatores associados e não sugestivos. A audiometria tonal liminar utilizada foi por via aérea, com a utilização de fones supra-aurais, por meio do estímulo acústico do tipo tom puro, contendo os limiares tonais das frequências de 250 a 6.000 Hz. As variáveis independentes foram as categorias dos pilotos, tempo de serviço, horas de voo e orelha direita ou esquerda. A variável dependente corresponde aos casos sugestivos de perda auditiva induzida por ruído. O grau de exposição foi considerado baixo/médio ou alto, sendo este último com horas de voo maiores que 5.000 e tempo de serviço maior que 10 anos. RESULTADOS Foram observados 29,3% casos sugestivos de perda auditiva induzida por ruído, 12,8% bilaterais com predomínio do lado esquerdo (23,7%). Com o aumento do grau de exposição ao ruído, o número de casos sugestivos de perda auditiva também aumentou. CONCLUSÕES A perda auditiva nos pilotos civis pode estar associada à exposição ao ruído ao longo do tempo de serviço e das horas de voo. .

Poluição sonora no município de São Paulo: avaliação do ruído e o impacto da exposição na saúde da população / Noise pollution in the city of São Paulo noise assessment and the impact of exposure on population health

As preocupações referentes aos níveis de ruído no mundo moderno têm se agravado em função dos processos de urbanização e industrialização, que têm comprometido a qualidade acústica urbana devido às múltiplas fontes de ruído existentes. O impacto da exposição ao ruído na saúde da população ainda não está claramente estabelecido. Estratégias para a padronização de medidas de avaliação do ruído urbano, assim como a relação causal entre exposição ambiental e desfechos em saúde tem sido objeto de pesquisa. Objetivo: avaliar a situação acústica do distrito de Pinheiros, São Paulo e o impacto da exposição ao ruído na saúde da população residente no distrito. Metodologia: O estudo foi conduzido em duas etapas: (1) avaliação do ruído no distrito em estudo e elaboração de mapas de ruído, usando o software Predictor 8.11, em áreas selecionadas como expostas e não expostas ao ruído do tráfego rodoviário; (2) avaliação dos efeitos na saúde da população residente no distrito, por meio de um inquérito domiciliar com a população residente no distrito. Foram realizadas análises estatísticas usando o Teste Qui-quadrado e a Regressão Logística Múltipla. Resultados: Foram avaliados 75 pontos, contabilizando 20h de medição. Em todos os pontos, os níveis de ruído ultrapassaram os limites estabelecidos pela legislação. Nas áreas expostas, a situação acústica caracteriza a existência de poluição sonora. Foram conduzidas 225 entrevistas. Observou-se associação entre morar em área exposta...

Concerns regarding noise levels in the modern world have worsened due to the urbanization and industrialization processes, that have committed to urban acoustic quality because of the multiple noise sources. The impact of noise exposure on population health is still not clearly established. Strategies for standardizing measures for assessing urban noise, as well as the causal relationship between environmental exposure and health endpoints have been subjects of research. Objective: to evaluate the acoustical situation in the district of Pinheiros, São Paulo, and the impact of noise exposure on health in the resident population in the district. Methods: The study was conducted in two steps: (1) noise assessment in the district under study and noise mapping, using the software Predictor 8.11, in areas selected as exposed and non-exposed to road traffic noise; (2) assessment of the health effects of the resident population in the district, through a household survey. Statistical analyses using Chi Square Test and Multiple Logistic Regression were performed. Results: 75 points were evaluated, accounting for 20h of measurement. At all points, the noise levels exceeded the limits established by law. In exposed areas, the noise situation characterizes the existence of noise pollution. 225 interviews were conducted. We observed an association between living in exposed area and: perceiving the traffic noise and consider the place of residence a noisy environment; report...

[Introducing the standard and chart to measure and control the motorcycle noise level]

Sound of motorcycles plays an important role in noise pollution in big cities. This is due to the lack of national law or standards to control the noise of domestic and also imported motorcycles. This study tries to introduce a practical limit value in different stage of motorcycle life cycle by assessing their noise pollution. First the motorcycles noise standards at different countries were studied and they were compared with the results from noise level of 622 motorcycles in 3 different groups. The sample volume in each group corresponds to the amount of their annual production rate. Then using statistical tests, a limit was determined in which 90% of the domestic motorcycles can be covered. The limit is proposed as the standard for domestic motorcycle noise. The limit for motorcycles of groups 1, 2 and 3were 84, 86 and 87 dB [A], respectively in the TA stage. For the COP stage [Conformity of Production], the limit increases according to certain formula. In the end, a flowchart was proposed as a standard method for measuring the sound of motorcycles in the TA and COP stages was proposed. Noise level of the domestic motorcycles is at least 9 dB [A] higher than the noise limit value of European motorcycle. If European limit value is considered for producing the national motorcycle, 90% of them will get out of production cycle and this would not be practical

Comfort of crew and passengers and atmospheric pressure, noise, wind speed in high-speed train of Shijiazhuang-Taiyuan passenger dedicated line / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To explore the crew and passengers' comfort on the Shijiazhuang-Taiyuan passenger dedicated line and physical factors, such as air pressure, noise, wind speed.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Comfort investigation of all the crew (n = 244) and passengers (n = 377) on the Shijiazhuang-Taiyuan passenger dedicated line at speed of 250 km/h and 200 km/h and the detection of the air pressure, noise and wind speed were performed in 2011.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Significantly higher ratio of comfortable feeling, lower ratio of seriously discomfortable feeling were observed in crew and passengers at 200 km/h compared with those at 250 km/h (P < 0.05), as well as rapid disappearance of discomfortable feeling in crew (P < 0.05) and significantly higher ratio of lightly discomfortable feeling and lower ratios of tinnitus and eardrum discomfort induced by air pressure and noise in passengers at 200 km/h. No significant difference was observed in ear discomfort induced by air pressure and noise among crew, and the duration of disappearance of discomfortable feeling among passengers between 200 km/h and 250 km/h. The noise in carriages exceeded the related standard when the high-speed train passing through the tunnels.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The individuals feel more comfortable at 200 km/h than 250 km/h in this line., which may be related with rapid variation of wind speed and noise when the train passes through the tunnels with high speed.</p>

Percepción del riesgo por emisiones atmosféricas provenientes de la disposición final de residuos sólidos / Perception of risk arising from atmospheric emissions from an open solid-waste disposal site

Objetivo Identificar los factores sociales que determinan la percepción del riesgo en la población que se encuentra expuesta a las emisiones atmosféricas de un sitio de disposición final de residuos sólidos de la ciudad de Santiago de Cali en Colombia denominado Basuro de Navarro (BN). Materiales y Métodos Estudio cuantitativo con aplicación de una encuesta a una muestra estratificada de 199 personas con asignación proporcional según nivel socio-económico. Resultados Para el 73 % de los encuestados el principal problema es la inseguridad, y para el 50 % es la contaminación del aire. Para los encuestados la contaminación se manifiesta con dolor en la garganta y ardor en los ojos. El 64 % con mayor tiempo de residencia en el sector considera que la contaminación está concentrada en otros sitios de la ciudad y se encuentra por fuera de su sector. El 83,4 % considera que el BN produce contaminación y la asocia al aire en un 42 %. El 48 % calificó como grave y el 29 % como muy grave la contaminación producida por el BN. Discusión Se asocia la percepción del riesgo al tiempo de residencia en el sector y la edad de las personas. Se evidencia la necesidad de implementar programas de divulgación. Sería importante que la comunidad estuviera más informada acerca de los riesgos y medidas de mitigación de la contaminación ambiental asociada al BN.

Objective Identifying social factors determining the perception of risk in a population exposed to atmospheric emissions from a solid waste final disposal site in the city of Cali, Colombia (Basurero de Navarro - BN). Methods This was a quantitative study; a stratified sample of 199 people were surveyed, distributed according to socio-economic level. Results The main problem for 73% of the respondents was insecurity and 50% considered this to be air pollution. Respondents described pollution manifesting itself as pain in the throat and burning eyes; 64% who had lived longer in the sector believed that pollution was more concentrated in other parts of the city and did not affect their sector. 83.4% believed that the BN produced pollution and associated it with the air (42%). 48% rated the pollution caused by the BN as being severe and 29% as being very serious. Discussion Risk perception was associated with the length of residence in the sector and individuals' age. Many gaps in information and the need to implement outreach programmes were highlighted. It is important that the community become better informed about the risks of pollution caused by the BN and what mitigation measures can be taken.

Traffic noise affects forest bird species in a protected tropical forest

The construction of roads near protected forest areas alters ecosystem function by creating habitat fragmentation and through several direct and indirect negative effects such as increased pollution, animal mortality through collisions, disturbance caused by excessive noise and wind turbulence. Noise in particular may have strong negative effects on animal groups such as frogs and birds, that rely on sound for communication as it can negatively interfere with vocalizations used for territorial defense or courtship. Thus, birds are expected to be less abundant close to the road where noise levels are high. In this study, we examined the effects of road traffic noise levels on forest bird species in a protected tropical forest in Costa Rica. Data collection was conducted in a forest segment of the Carara National Park adjacent to the Coastal Highway. We carried out 120 ten minute bird surveys and measured road noise levels 192 times from the 19th to the 23rd of April and from the 21st to the 28th of November, 2008. To maximize bird detection for the species richness estimates we operated six 12m standard mist nets simultaneously with the surveys. The overall mist-netting effort was 240net/h. In addition, we estimated traffic volumes by tallying the number of vehicles passing by the edge of the park using 24 one hour counts throughout the study. We found that the relative abundance of birds and bird species richness decreased significantly with the increasing traffic noise in the dry and wet season. Noise decreased significantly and in a logarithmic way with distance from the road in both seasons. However, noise levels at any given distance were significantly higher in the dry compared to the wet season. Our results suggest that noise might be an important factor influencing road bird avoidance as measured by species richness and relative abundance. Since the protected forest in question is located in a national park subjected to tourist visitation, these results have conservation as well as management implications. A decrease in bird species richness and bird abundance due to intrusive road noise could negatively affect the use of trails by visitors. Alternatives for noise attenuation in the affected forest area include the enforcement of speed limits and the planting of live barriers. Rev. Biol. Trop. 59 (2): 969-980. Epub 2011 June 01.

Las carreteras cerca de bosques alteran la función del ecosistema por fragmentación del hábitat y tienen otros efectos negativos como contaminación, mortalidad de animales y ruido excesivo; sobre todo en animales como ranas y aves que dependen del sonido para comunicarse. Se espera menos abundancia de aves cerca de la carretera donde el ruido es alto. Este estudio evalúa los efectos del ruido por carretera sobre las aves en un bosque tropical de Costa Rica. También realizamos censos de aves y medimos el ruido del 19 al 23 de abril y del 21 al 28 de noviembre 2008. Además, utilizamos redes de niebla para maximizar la detección de aves en la estimación de riqueza de especies. La abundancia de aves así como la riqueza de especies decrecieron significativamente con el incremento del ruido tanto en la estación seca como en la lluviosa. El ruido disminuyó en forma logarítmica con el aumento en la distancia a la carretera y fue más alto durante la estación seca. Nuestros resultados sugieren que las aves tienden generalmente a evitar el ruido del tráfico y tienen implicaciones en la conservación y manejo del área protegida.

framework to protect urban districts from the traffic noise in Elkhoms city, Libya

Similar to several cities all over the world, the urban districts of Elkhoms city, Libya, suffer from traffic noise, which results mainly from the rapid urbanization and extension towards the highways. The influence of this noise affects negatively different activities and uses within the city structure: residential, educational and health. This paper aims to propose a framework to address the traffic noise problems in Elkhoms city. To attain this aim, the paper, firstly, discusses the nature of traffic problems and noise levels in Elkhoms city. Afterwards, the researcher demonstrates the procedures of the traffic noise mitigation, which can be applied at two levels: planning and architectural. At planning level, the attenuation takes place at the noise sources such as urban and arterial roads. The applications at the architectural levels focus on the noise receiver; buildings in this case which represent the last protected line from noise. Later, the researcher carries out several measures to evaluate the influence of planning and architectural applications to reduce the noise levels in Elkhoms city. The paper ends with a number of planning and architectural criteria which should be taken into account to reduce the influence of traffic noise

Achados audiológicos e queixas relacionadas à audição dos motoristas de ônibus urbano / Audiologic findings and auditory-related complaints of urban bus drivers

OBJETIVO: Investigar os achados audiológicos e as queixas relacionadas à audição dos motoristas de ônibus urbano. MÉTODOS: A amostra foi constituída de 24 motoristas de ônibus da cidade de Francisco Beltrão (PR), com média de idade de 44 anos e três meses e com tempo de exposição total ao ruído de tráfego de 18,8 anos. Aplicou-se uma anamnese com questões referentes à história de saúde geral e auditiva, hábitos de vida e história ocupacional. Posteriormente, realizou-se a audiometria convencional analisada segundo a Portaria 19 do Ministério do Trabalho (1998) e os testes de percepção da fala. RESULTADOS: Com relação aos problemas que acometem a audição, 66,6 por cento dos motoristas não referem dificuldades para ouvir, 29,2 por cento referem zumbido e 12,3 por cento referem ocasionalmente sensação de plenitude auricular. As audiometrias demonstraram que 70 por cento dos participantes apresentaram audiogramas sugestivos de perda auditiva induzida por ruído. As frequências mais acometidas foram 4000 e 6000 Hz caracterizando configuração em entalhe bilateral em 83,3 por cento dos casos. CONCLUSÃO: Verifica-se a necessidade do desenvolvimento de ações preventivas voltados à saúde auditiva visando à melhoria das condições de trabalho e a preservação auditiva destes motoristas.

PURPOSE: To investigate audiologic findings and auditory-related complaints of urban bus drivers. METHODS: The sample comprised 24 bus drivers from the city of Francisco Beltrão (PR, Brazil), with average age of 44 years and three months, and total time of exposition to traffic noise of 18.8 years, in average. An anamnesis was carried out, with questions referring to general and hearing health history, lifestyle and occupational history. Subsequently, pure tone audiometry and speech perception tests were performed. The results of the audiometry were analyzed according to the Resolution 19 of the Ministry of Labor (1998). RESULTS: Regarding the problems that affect hearing, 66.6 percent of the drivers did not report hearing difficulties; 29.2 percent reported tinnitus, and 12.3 percent reported occasional sensation of aural fullness. Pure tone audiometry showed that 70 percent of the participants had results suggestive of noise induced hearing loss. The most affected frequencies were 4 and 6 kHz, characterizing bilateral noise induced notch in 83.3 percent of the cases. CONCLUSION: This study showed a need for the development of preventive actions towards hearing health, in order to promote improvements on work conditions and hearing preservation of bus drivers.

Brainstem evoked response in bus drivers with noise-induced hearing loss / Audiometria de tronco encefálico em motoristas de ônibus com perda auditiva induzida pelo ruído

Studies carried out by Brainstem Evoked Auditory Potentials (BEAP) in Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) workers show different results in relation to neuronal involvement, not involving bus drivers as study object. AIM: to use BEAP in a prospective case/control clinical study to check whether or not there is neural auditory pathway involvement in bus drivers with NIHL. MATERIALS AND METHODS: we selected 50 bus drivers between 27 and 40 years with mild to moderate NIHL, and 20 individuals between 29 and 40 years with normal hearing and without prior history of noise exposure. BEAP tests were carried out and the traces were analyzed. RESULTS: in the NIHL group, the auditory thresholds in 3, 4 and 6 kHz were significantly higher in the left ear. In the NIHL group, potentials PI, PIII and/or PV were not present in a small number of the individuals; we observed a statistically significant increase in PI, PIII and PV absolute latencies, (LIP) LIP I-III interpeak latencies, bilaterally and LIP I-V in the left ear. CONCLUSION: in the NIHL group, besides sensorial injury, changes in BEAP latencies suggest an early functional injury of the first auditory pathway afferent neuron.

Estudos realizados com os Potenciais Auditivos Evocados de Tronco Encefálico (PEATE) em trabalhadores com Perda Auditiva Induzida pelo Ruído (PAIR) apresentam resultados díspares em relação ao comprometimento neuronal, além de não contemplar motoristas de ônibus como objeto de estudo. OBJETIVO: Avaliar pelo PEATE, em estudo clínico de série caso/controle, prospectivo, se há comprometimento das vias auditivas neurais em motoristas de ônibus com PAIR. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Foram selecionados 50 motoristas de ônibus entre 27 e 40 anos portadores de PAIR leve a moderada; e 20 sujeitos entre 29 e 40 anos com audibilidade normal e sem antecedentes de exposição a ruído. Os PEATEs foram realizados e os traçados analisados. RESULTADOS: No grupo PAIR, os limiares auditivos em 3, 4 e 6 kHz foram significativamente maiores na orelha esquerda. No grupo PAIR, os potenciais PI, PIII e/ou PV foram ausentes em uma pequena parcela; foi observado prolongamento estatisticamente significante das latências absolutas de PI, PIII e PV, das latências interpicos (LIP) LIP I-III, bilateralmente e da LIP I-V na orelha esquerda. CONCLUSÃO: No grupo PAIR, além da lesão sensorial, as modificações das latências do PEATE sugerem lesão funcional do primeiro neurônio aferente da via auditiva, de forma precoce.