Public health implications of environmental noise associated with unconventional oil and gas development

A pilot study to assess residential noise exposure near natural gas compressor stations

“…Noise, or unwanted sound, is a physical hazard associated with UNGDP that has been identified as a major environmental health concern for nearby residents and communities [6–8]. Previous studies have linked chronic noise exposures in other settings to a wide variety of adverse effects.…”

Analysis of the acoustic climate during the drilling of gas wells in post-mining areas

“…Noise or unwanted, annoying sound could be described as a biological stressor and potential human health hazard (according Hays et al [9]). The authors summarized and concluded numerous noise measurements results associated with O&G extraction that had been published within articles and government reports (BoLM [3], NYCDEC FSGEIS [27], McCawley [23]; Garfield Country Colorado [8]; Ambrose and Florian [1], Witter et al [40], Behrens and Associetes Inc [2]; MIfAEH [22]).…”

“…The authors summarized and concluded numerous noise measurements results associated with O&G extraction that had been published within articles and government reports (BoLM [3], NYCDEC FSGEIS [27], McCawley [23]; Garfield Country Colorado [8]; Ambrose and Florian [1], Witter et al [40], Behrens and Associetes Inc [2]; MIfAEH [22]). Based on the publications listed above, Hays et al [9] extracted measurements or estimations of average noise level or range (dBa) during: general works, access road construction, site preparation and well pad preparation, truck traffic, vertical and horizontal drilling, fracturing and flowback, flaring and compressor station works. Table 1 shows all of the available measurements/estimated data collected by Hays et al (2017).…”

“…Based on the publications listed above, Hays et al [9] extracted measurements or estimations of average noise level or range (dBa) during: general works, access road construction, site preparation and well pad preparation, truck traffic, vertical and horizontal drilling, fracturing and flowback, flaring and compressor station works. Table 1 shows all of the available measurements/estimated data collected by Hays et al (2017). According to the articles and reports, noise level occurred during general works reached 70-90 dBA (on site < 50 feet).…”

Fracking and health

“…Nonetheless, although shale gas production may not be a population level health threat on the scale of tobacco, sugar, alcohol, or motor vehicle pollution, some evidence shows that it increases the risk of negative health and environmental outcomes, including increased risk of cancer, adverse birth outcomes, respiratory disease, and mental wellbeing 567891011…”