Environmental Impact - Sound

International Snowmobile Industry Association. Sounds of snowmobiling in winter.

Abstract

This paper is presented by the ISIA on behalf of its members and the nine million snowmobilers in North America. It is a comprehensive factual report of the current status of snowmobile sound emissions and their impact on man and his environment. Covers Sound and its measurement, sound level regulation, sound level studies, standards for sound emission control, impact on wildlife, current snowmobile sound levels, impact on operator hearing, SSCC safety standards, and recreational needs of man.

Details noise levels in everyday situations for the purpose of comparisons with state snowmobile noise laws for machines manufactured after 1976. Does not openly deny the machines are loud, but notes a gradual decline in noise levels of new snowmobiles over the 10 year period ending in 1976, caused by regulation. Includes tables showing state-by-state requirements, ambient noise in other everyday situations, and ambient city, suburban and rural noise levels. Concludes that listener reaction to noise is subjective, and stricter requirements for snowmobiles should not be enacted in the absence of public complaints.

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