Effects of noise
Noise can be described as unwanted sound. There are many different effects and sources of noise and individuals experience each of them to varying degrees. The effects can include general distraction, speech interference and sleep disturbance. Sometimes these effects can lead to annoyance and possibly more overt reactions, like complaints. Research into the potential health effects of noise is still unclear. Nevertheless the possibility that severe annoyance might induce stress cannot be ignored. The Air Transport White Paper acknowledged the potential health effects of aviation and noted the Government’s intention to continue with research on the effects of noise on human health. This includes research into the impacts of aircraft noise on children’s learning. BAA will continue to monitor government research in these areas (action 5.6).