Because of the high levels of traffic noise in parts of the city, the San Francisco Department of Public Health has identified parts of the city classified as "highly annoyed" where residents may suffer psychological and physical damage.
Topping the list was the South of Market area, which affects residents of the densely populated Chinatown, Civic Center and Tenderloin communities. The list was based on an assessment by the city and UC Berkeley researchers, which took into account the area's population, traffic congestion, topography and decibel readings.
Aside from traffic noise, other sounds that may disturb residents especially at night include sirens, trains and exhaust fans. Tom Rivard, senior environment health specialist of the Department of Public Health said identifying the hazardous noises should help the city craft building codes, land-use laws and transportation policies.
Rivard cited findings of the World Health Organization and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency which said noise, especially nocturnal loud sounds, could keep people awake, add to their stress levels and contribute to a host of ailments such as high blood pressure, heart diseases, depression and digestive problems.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, the emergence of quiet hybrid cars running on electricity has alarmed several groups as some physically impaired people like the deaf or blind have reported being hit by hybrids because they failed to hear or sense the approaching or passing hybrid car. Also at risk are pets, joggers, young children, cyclists and pedestrians who have their backs turned on slow moving hybrids, which when running on low speed is as quiet as a golf cart.
