Noise – the hidden killer in HCM City
Tens of millions of Saigonese not only suffer from the effects of waste water, hazardous waste and emissions, but also from noise.
Medical experts say that noise has damaging effects - physiological, psychological and social.
Physiologically, when noise exceeds acceptable levels, noise can cause ear injury or deafness, and cause cardiovascular diseases, hypertension and other chronic diseases.Psychologically, those who live in an environment with too much noise are affected by stress and nervousness, becoming aggressive and excitable.
Nguyen Van Nga, a doctor from Nguyen Trai Hospital, said that living in noise, people may suffer from headaches, which could become chronic and affect people’s ability to work. In all cases, noise makes lives less joyful for people.
Under national standards on noise, in special areas within the boundaries of healthcare centers, libraries, kindergartens, schools, pagodas and temples, the maximum noise levels allowed are 55 dB in 6-21h and 45 dB in 21-6 h.
As for other areas, such as residential quarters, houses in alleys, hotels, guesthouses and offices, the figures are 70 dB in 6-21h and 55 dB in 21-6h.
However, the noise measured by scientists is much higher than permitted levels. Hospitals, which need quiet the most, turn out to be the biggest sufferers.
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Dr. Nguyen Dinh Tuan, who has just conducted a research work on noise, believes that the biggest cause of the noise in HCM City is traffic. There are a high number of vehicles in circulation in the city, with the figure rising by 10% per annum.
Nguyen Van Lam, 30, noted that many people ignore traffic regulations. “They beep horns any time they want, causing terrible noise,” he complained.
At the intersections of Hang Xanh, Dinh Tien Hoang – Dien Bien Phu, An Suong Crossroads, Phu Lam roundabout, Huynh Tan Phat – Nguyen Van Linh Crossroads and many other roads, the noise is higher than the permitted level, both day and night.
Saigonese complained that since 2009, they have been suffering from noise from large-capacity loudspeaker systems set at supermarkets, shops and music centers.
In addition, the noise from metal drilling, cutting and welding have also been annoying and upsetting people’s lives. The production workshops are located in residential quarters.
A research work pointed out that the noise from drilling, cutting and welding is the most serious. Over 60 percent of workers in industries suffer from ear disorders.
Tran Van On, 22, a welder at a workshop which makes aluminum cabinets on Phan Huy Ich street, complained that he often feels unwell, but he still has to work to earn his living.
