Noise
Traffic noise is one of the biggest environmental health problems. Here you’ll learn how to read noise maps and what to look for in a new home.
Check an address
Enter an address and go straight to noise in the report.
What do we measure?
We look at noise from road traffic, trains and aircraft, and all sources combined. For the day we use an average over 24 hours in which evening and night count more heavily. For the night we look at road and rail traffic between 23:00 and 07:00.
Why does it matter?
A lot of noise causes annoyance and poorer sleep, and in the long run a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. What you hear during a daytime viewing says little about the night or rush hour. A noise map gives a fairer picture.
How to read the numbers
Noise is expressed in decibels (dB). Below 50 dB is quiet. Between 50 and 60 dB you clearly hear traffic; above 60 dB it is noisy. 3 dB more is twice the sound energy; 10 dB more sounds roughly twice as loud. The World Health Organization recommends at most 53 dB during the day for road traffic.
What can you do?
Check where the bedroom is: a quiet back side often makes a big difference. Good glazing and sound-insulating ventilation also help. Check with the municipality for plans for new roads, railways or businesses nearby.
Explore the map
Noise from all sources combined (24-hour average), calculated by RIVM. Zoom in on your own neighbourhood. The map is indicative; the report per address explains more.
Map source: RIVM Atlas Leefomgeving
Frequently asked questions
Is the noise map measured or calculated?
Calculated. RIVM uses models with traffic volumes, speeds and the location of roads and buildings. The busiest façade can be louder than the address point.
How much noise is too much?
The WHO recommends at most 53 dB during the day and 45 dB at night for road traffic. Above 55 dB many people are bothered.
Why is there no night-time aircraft noise?
For aircraft only a 24-hour map is available, no separate night map.
How up to date is the data?
Road and aircraft noise refer to 2022, rail noise to 2023. RIVM updates the maps periodically.