[Evaluation of noise pollution in crowded areas in Yasuj in 2006]

ABSTRACT

Human exposure to environmental noise increases day to day and noise is currently a very important stressful factor. One of the common sources of noise is transportation vehicles. Undesirable impacts of traffic persuaded governments to set rules for the problem and when civil planners and road engineers decide to construct highways, they must be sure that the related standards and rules have been met. The aim of this study was to evaluate the rate of noise pollution in crowded areas of Yasuj. Noise measuring was done by using B and K Sound Level Meter [model 2230]. Noise descriptors [Leq, Max, Min] were measured for 10 minutes of any hour during daytime and night in selected areas [11 stations]. One station was also selected as reference point and noise measurement was carried out for the whole week in this station. Leq was found to be 72 +/- 4.4 dB [Max] and 65.4 +/- 7 dB [Min]. Recorded maximum and minimum noise was 99.7 dB [at 17-18 o'clock] and 34 dB [at 4-5 o'clock], respectively. Comparing the findings of this study with standard scales indicates that Yasuj is experiencing high noise pollution