The Effect of Road Traffic Noise at Hospitals in Baghdad City

Abstract

Noise is a prominent feature of the environment.of all the sources of noise pollution, road traffic is the most prevalent and perhaps damaging source of noise pollution. The objectives of this study are to investigate the level of noise pollution which comes from traffic near Al- Wasity, Al-Elwayia and Zayed hospitals in Baghdad city. An instrument for the measurement of noise level was used on noise pollution was administered. Measurements of noise level were carried out on daily basis from (1-17) November and December during working days, also traffic volume was taken manually from 7:30 am to 2:30pm for the intersection in the study area and near the hospitals. HCS computer program was used to evaluate the level of service for these areas near the hospitals and the result show that the level of service was F. The daily averaged noise levels measurement inside and outside the hospital during day time were so high than the current day time environmental noise limit requirement according to Guid line. Finally some suggestion was given to reduce the noise level in this area.