Noise Hindrance Calculator

Population hindrance by transport noise

Indicator Details
Definition

The percentage of the urban population exposed to transport noise levels exceeding the recommended thresholds (typically Lden > 55 dB) that may cause annoyance, sleep disturbance, or other adverse health effects.

Rationale

Transport noise is a significant environmental health issue in urban areas, affecting quality of life, sleep patterns, and potentially leading to cardiovascular problems. Monitoring noise exposure helps cities develop effective noise reduction strategies and improve urban livability.

Methodology

Data is collected through strategic noise mapping using standardized methodologies (such as END 2002/49/EC). Measurements and calculations are performed for road, rail, and air transport noise, combining day, evening, and night levels (Lden) to assess overall noise exposure.

Data Sources
  • European Environment Agency (EEA) noise data
  • National and local environmental agencies
  • Urban noise mapping studies
  • Transport infrastructure databases
How to Calculate:
  1. Enter population exposure data for each transport mode across noise bands
  2. The calculator applies high annoyance weight factors for each mode and band
  3. Computes hindrance factors using polynomial regression on noise levels
  4. Calculates the normalized hindrance index and scaled indicator value
  5. Click "Calculate" to see your results
Population Exposure Data
Noise Band Road Rail Air Drone
55-59 dB
60-64 dB
65-69 dB
70-74 dB
>75 dB
High Annoyance Weight Factors
Noise Band Road Rail Air Drone
55-59 dB
60-64 dB
65-69 dB
70-74 dB
>75 dB
Results

Normalized Hindrance Index

Push the calculation button to see the results...

Indicator Value

Push the calculation button to see the results...

Visualization

Noise exposure levels visualization if FN need

References
  • European Environment Agency. (2020). Environmental noise in Europe.
  • World Health Organization. (2018). Environmental noise guidelines for the European Region.
  • Directive 2002/49/EC relating to the assessment and management of environmental noise.