RT journal article
T1 Noise Exposure and Mitigation on High-Speed Craft: Assessing Acoustic Environment and Regulatory Compliance
A1 Díaz-Secades, Luis-Alfonso
A1 Bouzón Otero, Rebeca
A1 Amado Sánchez, Yolanda Santísima Trinidad
A1 Crestelo Moreno, Fernando
A2 Máquinas y Motores Térmicos
K1 acoustic comfort
K1 environmental health
K1 high-speed crafts (HSC)
K1 noise exposure
K1 noise mapping
K1 noise mitigation strategies
K1 on-board noise
AB High-speed craft (HSC) present unique challenges regarding on-board noise levels, affecting crew safety, comfort, and operational efficiency. This study investigates noise exposure and mitigation strategies aboard three Ro-Pax HSC vessels operating in southern Spain, with a focus on noise sources, regulatory compliance, and crew health. Full-scale experimental measurements were conducted in critical on-board locations, and noise maps were developed to identify areas where sound levels exceed International Maritime Organization (IMO) and European Directive 2003/10/EC thresholds. Results highlight that engine rooms and propulsion systems are the primary sources of excessive noise, with significant transmission to passenger and crew accommodation areas. Noise exposure calculations reveal that several crew roles, particularly engineers and deckhands, face exposure to hazardous noise levels during routine operations. Mitigation strategies, including improved insulation, noise mapping, and the implementation of hearing protection, are recommended to enhance on-board acoustic conditions. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of noise pollution on HSC vessels and proposes practical interventions to reduce exposure, improving overall maritime safety and occupational health.
PB Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI)
SN 2077-1312
YR 2024
FD 2024
LK http://hdl.handle.net/10498/36493
UL http://hdl.handle.net/10498/36493
LA eng
DS Repositorio Institucional de la Universidad de Cádiz
RD 10-may-2026