Avaliação da exposição de passageiros ao ruído em linhas de ônibus de Curitiba

Abstract

Curitiba’s transportation system is known for its diversity of integrated lines and bus models. Different models point to different chassis, combustion engine positions and sizes, transmission and suspension types, bodies, and different years of manufacture. These characteristics can directly affect the level of noise that drivers and passengers are exposed daily. The aim of this study was to analyze the level of passengers’ noise exposure on bus routes in Curitiba. The methodology was based on taking measurements of the equivalent sound pressure level in dB(A) inside the buses, always positioned as close as possible to the engine, which is potentially the noisiest area. A personal dosimeter was used. The analyses were divided into two large groups: line categories and vehicle models. The results were compared with each other and with the World Health Organization’s community noise guidelines, with a focus on passenger health. It was concluded that the bus age is a significant factor in making the vehicles noisier and all the bus lines categories and vehicle types studied are within the noise margin determined safe by WHO, considering a person spends up to 3 hours inside a bus per day. In terms of comfort, no comparative references were found.