A Simple Criterion for Low Frequency Noise Emission Assessment

Abstract

There are many sources of Low Frequency Noise (LFN) in the environment and complaints about the effect of higher level LFN in the form in the form of "rumble", a "feeling of pressure" and the resultant headaches and nausea have been known for decades. A number of different European methods have been suggested for assessment of LFN, all based on measured indoor noise levels. The administrative procedures used in individual countries to enforce any LFN criteria are quite different but they are all generally based on the assumption that the annoyance due to LFN is dependent on the relative SPL when compared to the threshold of audibility. In terms of simplicity of application, the determination of an overall noise level that could be used for assessment of LFN would be the optimum approach rather than requiring any detailed spectrum analysis and calculations. Ideally, LFN criteria should be set indoors where the LFN complaints normally occur. However, in planning terms, it is much easier to set criteria for the outside of residences. In this paper, we therefore propose criteria for the prevention of LFN complaints for both residential and commercial permisies based on the measured overall C-weighted SPL. We also consider the impact of LFN SPL fluctuations.

An assessment of residential exposure to environmental noise at a shipping port

“…The measured noise levels are in breach of the proposed criteria set out by Broner and Knight-Merz (2011). Furthermore, by logarithmically adding the 25Hz, 31.5 Hz and 40Hz third octave band levels it is possible to compare the measurements with the 31.5Hz octave band criterion of 60dB set by the British Gas Corporation.…”

“…Kellberg et al's work (1997) suggests that if the difference between the noise values for the two weightings -dB(C)-dB(A) -is greater than 15 dB, there is potential for a low frequency noise problem. Similar guidance exists in Australia where the New South Wales Industrial Noise Policy (INP) recommends that a 5 dB modifying factor be added to the outdoor A-weighted sound pressure level when the 'C' weighted sound pressure level minus the 'A' weighted sound pressure level difference is 15 dB or greater (Broner, 2011).While this indicator does not provide definitive proof of a low frequency noise problem, it points to the need for further investigation within narrower frequency bands. The research of Kjellberg et al also suggests that if the 15dB value is exceeded, a useful rule of thumb is to add 6 dB to the corresponding A-weighted value to determine the equivalent level of annoyance and nuisance.…”

“…Table 1. Criteria for the control of annoyance due to low frequency noise Broner and Knight-Merz (2011) propose simple criteria (Table 1) for the control of annoyance due to low frequency noise. If the noise level is fluctuating by 5dB(C) then a penalty of 5dB(C) should be added i.e.…”

Evaluation of low frequency noise, infrasound, and health symptoms at an administrative building and men's shelter.

“…The frequency-specific or overall sound levels we measured are not known to cause adverse health effects. However, complaints of annoyance due to low frequency noise tend to be associated with an unbalanced noise spectrum [Broner 2010;Broner and Leventhall 1983], which can occur when sound levels in the low frequencies are higher relative to the sound levels in the higher frequencies.…”

Review of recent progress in studies on noise emanating from rail transit bridges

“…Low-frequency railway noise can easily pass through walls, windows, and other obstacles and can harm people's physical and mental health. Individuals subjected to environments characterized by chronic lowfrequency noise can suffer from insomnia, headache, tinnitus, discomfort, chest tightness, abdominal pressure, and other psychological and physical symptoms [3,4]. A spectrum analyzer is necessary for quantitative monitoring of low-frequency noise, but there are currently no national testing standards or engineering norms regarding lowfrequency railway noise in China or several other countries.…”