Abstract
Rail transport is an environmentally responsible approach and traffic is expected to increase in the coming decades. Little is known about the implications for quality of life of populations living close to railways. This study explores the way in which vibrations from rail are perceived and described by these populations. The study took place in the Västra Götaland and Värmland regions of Sweden. A qualitative study approach was undertaken using semi-structured interviews within a framework of predetermined questions in participants’ homes. A 26.3% response rate was achieved and 17 participants were interviewed. The experience of vibrations was described in tangible terms through different senses. Important emerging themes included habituation to and acceptance of vibrations, worry about property damage, worry about family members and general safety. Participants did not reflect on health effects, however, chronic exposure to vibrations through multimodal senses in individual living environments may reduce the possibility for restoration in the home. Lack of empowerment to reduce exposure to vibrations was important. This may alter individual coping strategies, as taking actions to avoid the stressor is not possible. The adoption of other strategies, such as avoidance, may negatively affect an individual’s ability to cope with the stressor and their health.
Highlights
The European Commission’s 2011 Transport White Paper indicates that railway forms a core component of the move to achieving more sustainable modes of transport [1]
The aim is to increase railway capacity by 50% [2]; an environmentally responsible approach that will contribute to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and benefit public health
On a more local level this increase in rail traffic may have negative implications for the quality of life and individual health of those populations whose living environment is in close proximity to railways
Summary
The European Commission’s 2011 Transport White Paper indicates that railway forms a core component of the move to achieving more sustainable modes of transport [1]. The aim is to increase railway capacity by 50% [2]; an environmentally responsible approach that will contribute to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and benefit public health. On a more local level this increase in rail traffic may have negative implications for the quality of life and individual health of those populations whose living environment is in close proximity to railways. Resources available in our environment affect our quality of life, not just through their physical presence and through the subsequent demands they place on us which in turn affects our behaviour [4]. The environment in which we live, our home, has an important role to play in our emotional, physical and mental well-being and sense of security
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