Forecast Estimates Based on the Results of Measuring Infrasound in Residential Areas of the City of Saint Petersburg

Abstract

Introduction. The process of predicting infrasound exposures in residential areas is difficult due to the lack of methods of mathematical modeling and calculating probable infrasound levels in an open area. The assessment of infrasound exposures in residential areas can be only performed using direct instrumental studies. The purpose of the study was to determine the prospects for organizing and monitoring infrasound exposures in residential areas. Materials and methods. We analyzed federal and departmental regulations on infrasound measurements. Low-frequency noise pollution in residential areas of various parts of St. Petersburg was studied. The objects of experimental research were selected in the immediate vicinity of road junctions, railways, air transport trajectories, and in the zones of large industrial enterprises. Results. More than 1,000 instrumental measurements were taken. We analyzed infrasound test reports, which were part of environmental engineering surveys, over a 10-year period and found significant discrepancies between the results obtained under similar conditions by various laboratories. Conclusions. We established that the infrasound levels produced by the main anthropogenic sources in St. Petersburg did not exceed permissible levels. We also substantiated inexpediency of conducting comprehensive studies and monitoring the parameters of infrasound in residential areas.