Low Frequency Noise: Figures, Facts and Myths. Results of a discourse between different stakeholders
Regular paper
RIVM
Wednesday 3 june, 2015, 16:20 - 16:40
0.9 Athens (118)
Abstract:
The number of questions and complaints related to Low Frequency Noise is increasing. The
Ministry of Spatial Planning and the Environment (the Netherlands) has therefor asked
the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) to build on a
knowledge base around the theme, within the framework of the Expertise Centre Noise.
Various efforts have been undertaken to shed more light on this topic. Despite these
efforts there are still many uncertainties and in many cases it is not possible to give
a clear cut answer to the many questions regarding LFN sources, and their effects on
people. In view of this it was timely to organize a symposium around LFN and hear what
we can learn from people who have been working in the field for a long time and with
different backgrounds. The main aim of this event was to give an overview of the state
of the art regarding exposure, effects, perceptions and (longer term) health effect and
exchange facts and ideas.
Specific attention was given to questions from practice: Measuring LFN and assessing
sources is quite difficult: what is necessary? Develop a simple but robust protocol? It
appears that LFN can lead to nasty effects but what do we know about the effects?:
biological or health effects, number of people affected (Prevalence), type of effects,
seriousness of effects, distribution (time, place , person), How can we diminish
(exposure to) noise in general and LFN in particular? Take an environmental hygiene
perspective?
Although opinions differed, sometimes even collided, the dialogue between participants
was respectful; results from case-studies (even anecdotal) as well as population-based
studies should be considered when dealing with LFN-problems. More of the outcomes will
be discussed at the conference.