lärmbelasteten

Lärmbelasteten is a term used in environmental health to describe people who are exposed to high levels of environmental noise. The word combines lärm (noise) and belastet (burdened) and is used mainly in German-language literature to refer to populations living or working in areas where noise exposure exceeds reference thresholds. In practice, the concept covers residents near roads, railways, airports, or industrial sites, as well as workers in consistently noisy environments.

Measurement and thresholds are typically based on standardized noise metrics such as the equivalent continuous sound level (Lden) and the night-level (Lnight). Thresholds vary by country and guideline, but exposure levels that exceed moderate ranges (roughly in the mid-50s to mid-60s decibels for Lden) are commonly described as a noticeable burden, while higher levels (65–70 dB and above) indicate a high burden. These classifications are used to assess risk, inform policy, and guide mitigation efforts.

Health and social effects are associated with chronic noise exposure. Documented impacts include sleep disturbance, cardiovascular risk, annoyance, cognitive effects in children, tinnitus, and noise-induced hearing loss with long-term exposure. Quality of life and daytime performance can also be affected.

Mitigation strategies focus on reducing exposure and improving resilience. Approaches include urban and transport planning to separate residential areas from major noise sources, installation of noise barriers, use of low-noise road surfaces, sound insulation in buildings, and regulatory measures to limit high-noise activities during sensitive hours.