A comparison of models to predict annoyance reactions to noise from mixed sources

Many residential communities are exposed to environmental noise from a mixture of sources. A simple energy summation model provides a convenient method for predicting annoyance reactions in mixed source situations but there is research evidence that the validity of its application is questionable. In this paper various alternative models are discussed. Their predictive powers are compared by using noise and social survey data collected at residential sites in the vicinity of Toronto International Airport. Sites were purposely selected to represent a range of aircraft and road traffic noise combinations. Of the five models examined, the simple energy summation model gives the poorest prediction of average annoyance. The strongest predictions are achieved by using independent effects and energy difference models. The implications of the results for predicting annoyance reactions to mixed sources are considered.