BUS PASSENGER'S NOISE EXPOSURE ASSESSMENT IN ITAJUBA, BRAZIL

摘要

Introduction: The bus transportation is a means widespread in the country towns of varying sizes. The noise level generated by this activity in the vehicles can cause discomfort or even other health problems, according to the exposure time. Aims: To evaluate the noise exposure levels inside the buses for urban transport in the city of Itajuba - MG. Methods: A sample of itineraries was determined to carry out dosimetry to assess exposure. The criteria for discomfort and hearing loss have referenced by those established by the World Health Organization (WHO). Results: In many situations of exposure, estimating travel times and considering the exposure value was found to overcome the limits set by WHO. Related to bother, most of the assessments exceeded the limit for severe nuisance. In some noisier lines, the possibility of PAIR was observed for a situation of usual travel superior to 57 minutes. The average of sound pressure level equivalent obtained was 81 dB (A). Conclusions: The evaluated buses do not offer appropriate comfort in which it concerns the acoustic parameters. There is a need to provide better vehicles designed to reduce the noise level emitted by the vehicle.