Environmental Noise Monitoring
Environmental noise is in essence unwanted sound in an area of human habitation. It is generally caused by transport, industrial and residential activities. Adverse effects of elevated noise exposure include interference with speech or other 'desired' sounds, annoyance, sleep disturbance, anxiety, hearing damage and stress-related cardiovascular health problems.
Without remedial action, environmental noise can have negative and long-lasting implications. The first step in managing or reducing environmental noise is to identify both the source and level of noise. To this end, Alkali Environmental provide the following services:
Environmental Noise and Monitoring Services
Assessment of noise nuisance in mixed industrial and residential areas in accordance with BS 4142 ‘Method for Rating Industrial Noise Affecting Mixed Residential & Industrial Areas’
To determine noise levels generated by construction sites and to advise on control measures in accordance with BS 5228 ‘Noise Control on Construction & Open Sites’
To measure environmental noise from an industrial site as a requirement of ISO 14001 Environmental Management System, or for determining compliance with planning consent
For assisting land developers with planning applications, following guidance in Department of Environment Publication PPG 24 ‘Planning & Noise’
Noise Modelling
When considering the noise aspects of a new development, or modifications to an existing site, it is usually necessary to predict the new noise climate for comparison with the current situation. Noise prediction from potential construction sites and road traffic are also essential to determine the degree of noise nuisance.
An acoustic model of an area is transposed on to a topographical map. The map includes items such as point sources of noise, buildings, ground and foliage regions, housing regions, industrial sites and surface contours.
The software is then used to determine predicted noise levels at receiver points and generate a noise contour diagram. The advantages of modelling are:
It is largely a desktop exercise when noise data is already available
It facilitates the calculation of the effects of many noise sources simultaneously
The effects of moving / removing / adding / attenuating noise sources can be determined quickly and easily
The calculations are based on international standards of computing sound propagation
It produces easily understood contour diagrams
Listening to Your Needs
As your environmental health experts, the team at Alkali Environmental are here to listen to your particular needs. Environmental noise problems often require a swift solution; our professionals are on standby to ensure a professional and proportionate response.