Evaluation of sound pollution near several government and private hospitals in Najaf city

Abstract

Sound pollution is a notable aspect of the environment whose intensity varies with its source and which affects nearby buildings, including hospitals. Because most hospitals are located on major thoroughfares and near industrial and commercial activities, they are frequently exposed to high levels of environmental noise, although the care they provide requires rest and tranquillity for patients. This study determined the level of noise pollution caused by various activities around several government and private hospitals in Najaf city, Iraq. A sound level meter (IEC 61672-1 type 2) was used to measure noise levels near eight hospitals three times a day (morning, afternoon, and evening) on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays during June and July. The average noise levels measured outside the hospitals were considerably higher than the environmental noise limits of the World Health Organization and the Iraqi noise standards. Recommendations for lowering noise levels near hospitals are made.