Wind Turbine Noise

The reliance on wind as a source of energy is increasing in Canada and around the world.  Some residents in communities that host large-scale turbine electricity generators have reported adverse health effects which they attribute to the sound emitted by operating wind turbines. 

Health Canada provides advice on the potential health impacts of environmental noise, including that from wind turbines, which is protective of health. This advice is based on reviews of the scientific literature, World Health Organization guidelines, international standards, and knowledge gained from environmental assessments.

Wind Turbine Noise and Health Study

Health Canada is working with Statistics Canada and other external experts to design and conduct a multi-year research study that will explore the relationship between exposure to sound levels produced from wind turbines and the extent of health effects reported by, and objectively measured in, those living near wind turbines.

The results of this study, anticipated in late 2014, will contribute to the body of peer-reviewed scientific research on wind turbine noise.

• Health Canada Wind Turbine Noise and Health Study Design Consultation
• Health Impacts and Exposure to Sound From Wind Turbines: Updated Research Design and Sound Exposure Assessment
• Wind Turbine Noise and Health Study: Summary of Comments Received
  Part 1 - Study Design Related
• Wind Turbine Noise and Health Study: Summary of Comments Received
  Part 2 - Not Specific to Study Design
• Expert Committee Members
• Questions and Answers

For information on what Health Canada does in this area

• Acoustics