Effects of Low Frequency Noise and Vibrations: Environmental and Occupational Perspectives

This article provides a current knowledge base of adverse effects due to community and occupational low frequency noise (20–200 Hz). Low frequency noise has a large annoyance potential, and the prevalence of annoyance increases with higher sound pressure levels (SPLs) of low frequencies. Low frequency noise annoyance is related to headaches, unusual tiredness, lack of concentration, irritation, and pressure on the eardrum. Data suggest that sleep may be negatively affected. In occupational environments, low frequency noise may negatively affect performance at moderate noise levels, whereas the health consequences of higher SPLs are less well known. Factors inherent in most low frequency noise such as the throbbing characteristics, the intrusion of low frequencies felt when other frequencies in the sound are attenuated, and the vibration sensations sometimes felt contribute to the response. Measurements need to properly assess the individual exposure and include spectral, temporal, and if present also vibration characteristics. The risks for adverse effects are of particular concern because of its general presence due to numerous sources, an efficient propagation of the noise from the source, and poor attenuation efficiency of building structures. Compared to other noise sources, data on low frequency noise are limited, and further studies are clearly needed.