In addition to the effects of the oscillating sound generated by industrial wind turbine blades thee are increasing studies on the effects of low frequency sound and infrasound (inaudible frequencies below 20Hz) on humans and animals. Listed below are links to papers and articles published about this type of sound, specifically the range of sounds generated by industrial wind turbines and their effects.
Proposed turbine noise rules would be most restrictive in state—The proposed rules would give Lancaster County, Nebraska, the most restrictive noise regulations for commercial wind turbine projects in the state. Wood said the likelihood of violating those regulations would be so great that wind energy companies would build in other counties rather than risk violating the zoning regulations.
Scott Holmes, environmental health division manager for the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department, said the proposed rules were based on recent studies evaluating the potential health impacts of the constant, percussive sound made by wind turbines, which can cause annoyance and sleep disturbance.
Sounds We Don’t Hear Could Still Affect Our Ears —Study could have repercussions in assessments of risk potential of exposure to low frequency sounds, for example those produced by wind turbines
Cooperative Measurement Survey and Analysis of Low-Frequency and Infrasound at the Shirley Wind Farm—Three families in the footprint of the Shirley Wind project (owned by Duke Energy) have reported adverse health effects since the wind turbine utility commenced operation. Two have been forced out of their homes… The four investigating firms are of the opinion that enough evidence and hypotheses have been given herein to classify LFN and infrasound as a serious issue, possibly affecting the future of the industry. It should be addressed beyond the present practice of showing that wind turbine levels are magnitudes below the threshold of hearing at low frequencies.
Wind Turbines and Ghost Stories:The effects of Infrasound on the human auditory system — “..studies provide strong evidence for infrasound impact on human peripheral and central auditory responses.”
Low-frequency sound affects active micromechanics in the human ear—A medical study in Germany defines the affects of low-frequency sounds on the inner ear.
Effects of nighttime low frequency noise on the cortisol response to awakening and subjective sleep quality—A Swedish study on the effects of low frequency noise (not Wind Turbine specific) affects mood and sleep quality.
How Does Wind Turbine Noise Affect People—The many ways by which unheard infrasound and low-frequency sound from wind turbines could distress people living nearby are described.
Seismic Effect on Residents from 3MW Wind Turbines—A New Zealand study discovers seismic waves eminating from a wind turbine can be felt by and affect humans.
Stormy weather ahead for wind farms?—Researchers will study the vibrations of wind turbines at a large Chilean wind farm along with health impacts on nearby residents. The goal is to make wind turbines more acceptable. Currently, scientists lack sufficient understanding of wind turbines’ noise and best ways to mitigate the effects, they say.
Wind Turbines can be Hazardous to Human Health—”The wind industry has taken the position if you cannot hear the infrasound , then it cannot affect you.”