Evaluation of Noise pollution in the schools of Birjand city and its administrative solutions, in 2011

  Background: Educational centers have higher standards for controlling noise pollution as it has been shown that noise pollution is a major cause of discomfort for teachers and students. Noise pollution reduces concentration, interferes in the conversation, and leads to dropouts and lower grades especially in mathematics. The present study aimed to evaluate noise pollution in the schools of Birjand and its administrative solutions in 2011.   Materials and Methods: This study examined the level of noise pollution in the schools of Birjand city and suggested implementation to reduce noise pollution. The Casellacel model Cel-450 was used in accordance with international standards. Through exhaustive field visits and interviews with school authorities 12 schools (4 each from primary, middle and high schools) were randomly selected in the different parts of the city.   Results: The results showed that the schools under study were badly affected by noise pollution, as these noise levels were higher than the standard levels (35 dB). The maximum noise level during class time was recorded as 72.3 dB, while the maximum noise level during recess time was recorded as 87.4 dB. Ineluctably, the schools with high student/class ratio showed a higher noise pollution level.   Conclusion: It can be concluded that, the schools in different regions of Birjand have problems in terms of noise pollution. Fortunately, all school authorities were aware of this issue and with all facilities and special arrangements tried to resolve the problem. However, the major factors responsible for the noise pollution were out of their control.