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Global Bioweather

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Noise annoyance - physical factors

Without doubt, the sound level of a noise source is by far the most important annoyance factor. Sound doubles in intensity with every ten decibel increase in the sound pressure level. In other words, 80dB is considered to be twice as loud as 70dB.

So, is an overflying aircraft with a noise level of 80dB equally annoying as the hum of an air-conditioning fan with the same sound level? Not so, surveys have identified the physical characteristics of the noise source as an important part in deeming a noise as being annoying or not.

Frequency range
Which frequency range is more annoying? The many surveys don’t give a clear answer. For some the high-frequency squeel or hiss is very annoying, while for others the low-frequency hum is unbearable. This may have something to do with the ability of individuals to hear a certain range better than the other.

Dynamic properties
These are changes in sound pressure levels, either increasing or decreasing, and can be gradual or rapid. Given the same level, fluctuations, such as the impulsive noise from a jackhammer, are perceived to be louder and much more annoying than gradual changes.

Type of noise
People are much more comfortable with noises generated by nature, such as from birds, wind, water, and weather. Music and speech too is to some extent more tolerable when it is natural rather than electronic. In contrast, the types of noise associated with the workplace and with traffic, for example, are perceived to be more annoying.

Time and predictability
Surveys show that the expected and/or occasional loud noise is more tolerable than unexpected and continuous or repetitive noise. Contrary to the popular belief that a person can grow accustomed to noise, statistics show an increase in annoyance complaints, in particular when people are exposed to noise they associate with danger.

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Global Bioweather

Noise annoyance - physical factors

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Noise