Public health impacts from subway noise: Case study Hong

Abstract

In cities, subway noise is often cited as a major contributor to noise pollution that impact millions of people every day. Studies by Gershon, Neitzel, Barrera & Akram (2009) have shown the noise level inside New York City subways can range from 80-112 decibels (dB), which greatly exceed the 70dB level set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and EPA for safe environmental noise levels. The significance of this research is to measure and quantify the impact that subway noise may have on passenger health and propose recommendations that can be taken by local government and regulators to improve public health. The research scope of analysis consists of four parts. First, a discussion of variance of all nine subway lines in Hong Kong and performance in comparison to other subway lines around the world. Second, a spectral distribution study was conducted on the loudest segments, which suggest that tunnel confinement and modes play a dominate role in noise characteristics. Third, an analysis of sound-power to train-velocity relationship of the loudest segment from which we propose a new train speed profile that optimize noise exposure reduction and discuss the feasibility of such measure for future subway management. Finally, a study of vibroacoustic exposure near the ears and its potential impact to passengers health.