TRANSPORTATION
Hooting and road traffic
constitutes the major sources of noise pollution. The running of motor vehicle engines
as well as the use of hooters contributes to high levels of noise. Road traffic noise is
mostly experienced in proximity to highways and major roads and in areas of high density
and commercial activities, such as the Inner City. The taxi industry is also a source of
high traffic noise. OCCUPATIONAL NOISE
It is a well-known fact that most people are exposed to occupational noise. Although
statistics regarding occupational noise in Greater Johannesburg are not available it is
worthwhile mentioning that it is estimated that more than half of the production workers
in the United States work in settings where the noise level is so high that hearing loss
is likely (Veitch, 1995). Construction sites have been identified by Veitch as the biggest
source of occupational noise followed by mines, airports and mills, as well as certain
industries.
COMMUNITY NOISE
Everyday living introduces a number of unwanted sounds in the
urban environment, which may come from radios, church gatherings, incessant barking by
dogs, the slamming of doors, or raised voices. A study conducted by Walters (1968)
estimated that there was a 1dB increase in urban noise for the period 1948-1968, which
resulted in a thousandfold increase in intensity.
According to Walmsley Environmental Consultants (1997) the
major sources of noise pollution in Greater Johannesburg include:
- All major roads and highways;
- Overhead air traffic;
- All major manufacturing and heavy industry areas; and
- Construction.
REFERENCES
Walmsley Environmental Consultants 1997: GJTMC
Integrated Metropolitan Development Plan - Report No. W262. WEC: Rivonia. |
