Interactions between noise and air pollution

Abstract A theoretical framework for the discussion of interaction effects between noise and air pollutants (e.g., carbon monoxide, heavy metals, and organic solvents) on the auditory system as well as on extraaural systems is presented. The interactions are categorised into five groups: local interaction, independent action, dependent aftereffects, transaction, and general interaction. Information on combined effects of carbon monoxide and noise, as well as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide, serve as examples how the different intensities of effects, as well as the different effect levels, may be taken into account within the described theoretical framework. The problem of sensory interactions as well as combined annoyance effects are analysed with the same conceptual approach.