Night-Time Decibel Hell: Mapping Noise Exposure Zones and Individual Annoyance Ratings in an Urban Environment in Ghana
Table 1
Range for the relationship between nocturnal noise exposure and health effects in the population.
Night-time noise (outside) exposure
Health effects observed in the population
<30 dB(A)
Although individual sensitivities and circumstances differ, it appears that up to this level no substantial biological effects are observed.
30–40 dB(A)
A number of effects are observed to increase: body movements, awakenings, self-reported sleep disturbance, and arousals. The intensity of the effect depends on the nature of the source and the number of events. Vulnerable groups (e.g., children and chronically ill and elderly people) are more susceptible. However, even in the worst cases, the effects seem modest.
40–55 dB(A)
Adverse health effects are observed among the exposed populations. Many people have to adapt their lives to cope with the noise at night. Vulnerable groups are severely affected.
>55 dB(A)
The situation is considered increasingly dangerous for public health. Adverse health effects occur frequently, and a sizable proportion of the population is highly annoyed and sleep-disturbed. There is evidence that the risk of cardiovascular disease increases.
