Ottawa to study possible health effects generated by wind turbines

TORONTO – Health Canada is planning a study to examine the possible links between wind-turbine noise and health effects reported by people living near the power-generating structures.

Federal Health Minister Leona Aglukkaq says the research was prompted by concerns from residents living near wind farms about possible health problems related to low-frequency noise from the turbines.

The study will initially focus on residents in 2,000 dwellings selected from eight to 12 wind-turbine installations across Canada.

Researchers will assess residents’ blood pressure and take other physical measurements, conduct in-personinterviews, and measure noise levels both inside and outside some homes.

The proposed research design is posted on Health Canada’s website for a 30-day public comment period, andfeedback will be reviewed by the committee designing the study.

Results of the research are expected to be published in 2014.

Online:

http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/consult/_2012/wind_turbine-eoliennes/index-eng.php