NOISE AND EMF LEVELS HEALTH EFFECTS
Noise is unwanted sound, which is considered unpleasant, loud or disruptive to hearing. Many health studies have shown that continuous exposure to high noise levels results in health impacts, primarily on hearing, nervous system and psychological state. Noise also causes direct and cumulative adverse effects interfering with sleep, communication, recreation and reproduction. Additionally, there is a growing global concern among the public about the health effects of exposure to non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation. Based on the scientific literature reviewed by World Health Organization (WHO), there is limited evidence to conclude that exposure to low levels of EMF is harmful to human health. According to the Dubai Municipality data acquired by the stations monitoring non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation and the ongoing field survey program implemented by Dubai Municipality, all measurements fall within the permissible limits.
NOISE INDEX
The noise index reflects the noise nuisance perceived by the general public. The index, additionally, takes into account both background noise and noise peaks created by events such as passing aircrafts and rail traffic. Following the defined formula an index was developed in order to present the variations in hourly noise levels on a scale of 0 to 10 – 0 being the most quiet, and 10 demonstrating the noisiest environment. These scores are further assessed and categorised by Dubai Municipality as quiet, moderate and noisy, represented by green, yellow and orange colours, respectively. The colour scale considers the time of the day given that people are more sensitive to noise at night in comparison to the day time.