Noise pollution in Kashan in 2000-01

Noise pollution is an environmental problem of big cities that cause hearing loss sleep disorder, hypertension and GI problems. Determining the noise pollution is of utmost importance to access suggested standards. The present study was carried out in different districts of Kashan in 2000 to determine the noise pollution. During this descriptive study four different settings of Kashan were included districts of heavy traffic, hospital setting, residential areas and residential-industrial areas. Noise Dosimeter and Sound Level Meter were used in 24 stations for 8 hours (8AM-12 and 16PM-20PM) during a 9-month period. Leq was determined in each station. Leq of districts of heavy traffic, hospital setting, residential areas and residential-industrial areas was 76.6, 56.6, 56.7 and 54.8 db, respectively. There was no significant difference between morning and afternoon periods. Noise pollution was obvious in districts of heavy traffic, hospital setting and residential areas. Further studies are highly recommended.