NUISANCE GENERATED BY URBAN NOISE AMONG TRADERS AROUND A PUBLIC MARKET IN JOÃO PESSOA, PB

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: Noise is variously found in the urban context of large cities, interfering with daily life and directly with the welfare of the population. Objective: To identify the discomfort caused by urban noise among traders of commercial establishments located in the surroundings of a public market, whose streets are notoriously noisy, in the city of João Pessoa. Material and Methods: A total of 89 traders (aged between 18 and 65 years) of commercial establishments were submitted to a semi-structured questionnaire adapted from PETIAN (2008). Noise measurement was performed at the door of each establishment. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee (CCS, UFPB). Results: The sound intensity identified in the establishments reached 94dB. The noise was found to be the greatest cause of discomfort for participants, with weighted average of 2.35. In addition, the source of noise that bothers the most is that coming from audio cars (1.45). Concerning the auditory complaints, there was prevalence of tinnitus (38.20%) and, among the extra-auditory ones, headache and stress predominated (reported by 66.29% of study subjects). Conclusions: The noise proved to be the factor that most generates discomfort to the traders, especially that coming from audio cars. A significant proportion of traders reported auditory and extra-auditory complaints. Thus, the adoption of measures for noise control in this region of the capital of Paraiba state is urgent, in order to avoid worsening the quality of life of residents and workers from this area. DESCRIPTORS Noise Effects. Noise Control. Occupational Risks.