Determination of noise pollution from motor vehicles in Iran: A cross-sectional study in 2014

Noise has become a concern for both public and policy makers. This study assessed noise levels produced by various motor vehicles routinely used in Iran.
The study design was cross-sectional, which was done in 2014 (Iran). The samples consist of 346 motor vehicles categorized as motorcycles, passenger cars, buses and heavy duty vehicles. Relatively, noise propagated from motor vehicles was measured by a sound level meter with octave band analyzer. Sound pressure levels within octave band frequency surrounding the motor vehicles were determined in static position.
The average sound pressure levels for buses, heavy duty vehicles and motorcycles measured 83 dB(A), 83 dB(A) and 82 dB (A) respectively, were exceeded recommended environmental criteria. Buses had the highest sound pressure levels followed by trucks, motorcycles and passenger cars. Analysis of variance indicated a significant difference between the two groups of motor vehicles used for less than five years and more than five years (p The determination of noise pollution from various motor vehicles should be considered in health researches. Using newer transportation sources can abate traffic noise pollution