Best Available Techniques For Control of Noise & Vibration

Best Available Techniques for Contr ol of Noise &
Vibr ation
R&D Technical Report P4-079/TR/1
S Mitchell
Research Contractor:
Environment Resources Management
Publishing Or ganisation
Environment Agency, Rio House, Waterside Drive, Aztec West, Almondsbury,
BRISTOL, BS32 4UD.
Tel: 01454 624400 Fax: 01454 624409

Website: www.environment-agency.gov.uk
© Environment Agency 2001 November 2001
ISBN 1 857 05722 8
All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system,
or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording
or otherwise without the prior permission of the Environment Agency.
The views expressed in this document are not necessarily those of the Environment Agency.
Its officers, servants or agents accept no liability whatsoever for any loss or damage arising
from the interpretation or use of the information, or reliance upon views contained herein.
Dissemination Status
Internal: Released to Regions
External: Released to Public Domain
Statement of Use
This project has considered the Best Available Techniques for the assessment and control of
both noise and vibration from industrial and commercial sources. The information in this
document is for use as background information by Agency staff and others involved in the
regulation of noise and vibration, however it is not intended to be a replacement for specialist
advice. At the date of publication of this report the Agency is consulting upon guidance notes
on noise and vibration which describe the application of the general information given herein in
a regulatory context.
Keywor ds
environmental noise, environmental vibration, best available techniques
Resear ch Contr actor

This document was produced under R&D Project P4-079 by:
Environmental Resources Management, 8 Cavendish Square, London W1M 0ER
Tel: 020 7465 7200 Fax: 020 7465 7272 Website: www.erm.com
Envir onment Agency’s Pr oject Manager

The Environment Agency’s Project Manager for Project P4-079 was:
Lorraine Powell, Environmental Protection National Service, Head Office, Bristol.
R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report provides a body of information on the measurement, assessment and control of
environmental noise from facilities and activities of the type covered by the Integrated
Pollution Prevention & Control (IPPC) Directive and the Waste Management Licensing
Regulations, although it could potentially be of wider application. Vibration is also addressed
in an environmental context but detailed discussion on the subject is left to specialist
publications. This report forms an information source from which the Agency will develop
internal guidance and training. The report is not intended to be used in isolation from the
relevant Agency guidance for the purpose of regulatory decision-making.
Of necessity, the information is provided in summary form but reference is made to relevant
standards and guidance documents for further detail. The main topics covered include:
· an introduction to the effects of noise;

· the measurement of noise and vibration;
· calculation of noise levels;
· prediction and modelling;
· assessment techniques;
· Best Available Techniques (BAT) for noise control, including; .
o principles of noise attenuation;
o noise control equipment;
o noise management practices;
o planning noise control; and
o costs, benefits and implications of noise control.
Almost inevitably noise permitting will require the setting of noise limits and there can be
complex issues associated with determining where limits should apply and an appropriate
level to provide adequate environmental protection. Fortunately there is much existing
guidance on noise assessment including British Standards and Planning Guidelines, elements
of which are applicable to the Agency’s regulatory remit. This report describes the scope and
purpose of the more relevant pieces of guidance material, but it has not been possible to
extract a prescriptive method for establishing a noise limit as the setting of an appropriate
limit will always depend on local factors that cannot be discussed in general terms. Appendix
D of the report outlines the standards that can be used and some of the additional factors that
need to be considered in a given situation.
As part of the permitting process for IPPC the Agency will be involved in determining BAT
to prevent or minimise emissions of noise and vibration and balancing this against other
emissions or environmental impacts for a particular installation. The following options
would normally be considered as part of the determination:
· use of inherently quiet processes

· selection of quiet plant options;
· site layout to maximise screening and separation distances;
· orientation, bunding, barriers for noisy plant;
· phasing of development/ operations ( eg landfill filling sequence);
· noise attenuation equipment; and
R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1 i

· noise management - plant maintenance, closing doors, locating mobile plant, restricting
hours of operation etc.
Community liaison is also an important element of noise management, and formal systems
are required which address complainants concerns and to feed into the central management
process for the operation.
Six case studies are included in the report to illustrate noise control in practice. They
demonstrate a mixture of innovative and more standard ways to address noise emissions from
various facilities, and the difficulties, costs and benefits of each.
R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1 ii

CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY iii
1 INTRODUCTION 1
1.1 Preamble 1
1.2 Background 1
1.3 Objectives of the Study 2
1.4 Structure of This Report 2
2 REVIEW OF NOISE AND VIBRATION ASSESSMENT METHODS 3

2.1 Introduction 3
2.2 The Effects of Noise 3
2.3 Measurement of Noise 5
2.4 Prediction of Noise 10
2.5 Assessment of Noise 11
3 BEST AVAILABLE TECHNIQUES FOR NOISE CONTROL 16

3.1 Introduction 16
3.2 How Sound is Attenuated 16
3.3 Sound Attenuation Through Structures 16
3.4 Noise Control Equipment 18
3.5 Noise management Practices 21
3.6 Planning Noise Control 23
4 COSTS, BENEFITS AND IMPLICATIONS OF NOISE CONTROL 25

4.1 Introduction 25
4.2 Cost Benefits 25
4.3 General Implications 26
4.4 Environmental Implications 27
5 CASE STUDIES 28
5.1 Introduction 28
5.2 Selection of Case Studies 28
5.3 Overview of Case Studies 28
5.4 Summary of Case Study 1 29
5.10 Conclusions From Case Studies 32
BIBLIOGRAPHY 33
LIST OF FIGURES 34
LIST OF TABLES 34
APPENDIX A GLOSSARY OF ACOUSTICS TERMINOLOGY 35

APPENDIX B NOISE MEASUREMENTS AND CALCULATIONS 36
APPENDIX C NOISE COMPLAINT AND NOISE MEASUREMENT FORMS 44
APPENDIX D SUMMARY OF RELEVANT GUIDANCE DOCUMENTS
ON THE ASSESSMENT OF NOISE AND VIBRATION 46
APPENDIX E NOISE CONTROL EQUIPMENT INFORMATION SHEETS 55
APPENDIX F CASE STUDIES 66
R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1 iii

1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Pr eamble
Environmental Resources Management (ERM) were commissioned by the Environment

Agency under Contract HOC0335 to undertake a technical research study entitled;
Determination of the Latest Best Available Techniques for Control of Noise and Vibration
and Their Applicability to Each of the Regimes with Regulatory Responsibility. The study is
a desktop review of current noise assessment methodologies and noise and vibration control
practices, including case studies. ERM appointed Acoustic Design Ltd as sub-consultants to
assist in the case studies. The findings are presented in this R&D Technical Report in order
to assist the Agency in developing guidance material to Agency officers and the Operators of
facilities covered by the Regulations.
1.2 Backgr ound
EC and UK environmental legislation has generally applied to separate aspects of the

environment resulting in solutions for one environmental issue that may in some cases result
in adverse effects for another aspect. The Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (IPPC)
directive seeks to harmonise the process for a range of industrial activities.
In the UK noise is not currently considered under Integrated Pollution Control (IPC) except
where recovery or disposal of waste is undertaken and, where there is a problem, regulation is
dealt by Local Authorities, primarily through nuisance legislation. Noise is however a
consideration under the Waste Management Licensing Regulations which cover facilities
such as landfills, waste transfer stations and scrap metal processing. Noise is also a Planning
consideration and conditions may be imposed as part of the planning permission for a new
industrial development.
IPPC takes into account a range of environmental issues, including noise and vibration. As a
result of the new PPC Regulations (Pollution Prevention & Control (England & Wales)
Regulations 2000), by which means the IPPC Directive is enacted in the UK, operators of a
wide range of activities will be required to make careful consideration of the noise emitted
from their facilities as a part of the total environmental impact.
In future, permits issued under the PPC Regulations will seek to achieve a high level of
protection for the environment as a whole and will require Best Available Techniques (BAT)
to be employed. In determining BAT the technical characteristics of the installation, the
geographical location and local environmental conditions can, where appropriate, be taken
into consideration. The Environment Agency will be issuing guidance on what constitutes
Best Available Techniques for different industry sectors and also for cross cutting issues such
as noise and vibration.
Permits will be issued according to a rolling timetable such that all industry sectors will be
brought under regulation by 2007. Administration of the PPC regime will be split between
the Agency and Local Authorities according to sector and, in some cases, throughput. Where
the Agency is the primary regulator the view of the Local Authority will be sought as part of
the formal consultation process. This is particularly relevant where there are issues relating
to noise and vibration. A protocol describing the interaction of the Agency and the Local
Authorities at a local level has been drafted.
R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1 1

1.3 Objectives of the Study
The Environment Agency requires an up to date body of knowledge from which it can
develop guidance material on how to assess and control environmental noise from facilities
covered by the IPPC Directive. This knowledge is to be assimilated into an R&D report
describing noise measurement protocols, assessment methodologies, the Best Available
Techniques for noise control, and how these techniques fit into the new fully integrated
approach to pollution prevention. Whilst this report covers subject matter that is technical in
nature, it assumes no prior knowledge of acoustics and is not aimed at qualified acousticians.
1.4 Str uctur e of This Repor t
The remainder of this report is structured as follows:
Section 2 provides an introduction to the effects of noise, describes measurement

techniques, and discusses assessment methodologies;
Section 3 summarises the Best Available Techniques for noise control;
Section 4 discusses the costs, benefits and environmental implications of noise control;
and
Section 5 summarises the case studies.
To aid the reader through the substantial volume of information that has been reviewed much
of the detailed information is given in the following Appendices:
Appendix A is a glossary of acoustics terminology;
Appendix B gives technical advice on noise measurement and calculations;
Appendix C gives forms for recording noise measurements;
Appendix D gives a review of relevant guidance material;
Appendix E contains 11 noise control information sheets; and
Appendix F gives full accounts of the case studies.

2 REVIEW OF NOISE & VIBRATION ASSESSMENT METHODS
2.1 Intr oduction
This chapter summarises best practice in noise and vibration measurement, prediction and
assessment methodologies. In recent years several organisations have periodically produced
guidance material on various aspects of environmental noise assessment, to the extent that
there are now numerous guidelines that may be helpful in a given situation. Indeed, there is
now a vast extent of knowledge in the field of acoustics, as indicated by the size of the UK's
Institute of Acoustics, which now has over 2000 members or associate members. Hence, it is
not appropriate to raise new issues in this section, but rather to summarise the consensus view
that existing material provides for the situations likely to be encountered in the IPPC
permitting process.
There is a common approach that involves, measuring ambient noise levels, measuring or
predicting the new or problematic noise, and assessing the new noise against the background
noise and/or absolute noise level criteria. However, a view shared by many experts in
environmental noise assessment is that the impact of noise on a community, in a particular
situation, cannot be assessed by following a series of mechanical procedures. The process by
which noise effects people is simply too complex and local conditions will call for flexibility
and judgement to be used. Indeed, this is recognised in Planning Policy Guidance 24,
Planning and Noise (1994) which introduces the concept of Noise Exposure Categories rather
than a simple set of yes/no noise criteria. Hence, this chapter does not include a procedural
method of assessing noise impacts, but rather guides the reader to existing guidance material
that is particularly relevant in the context of the IPPC/Waste Management Licensing
Regulations.
Whilst this chapter aims to provide easily accessible guidance on noise assessment
techniques, it should be recognised that environmental noise is a complex scientific subject
worthy of further study. For example, the Institute of Acoustics offers a training course
leading to a certificate of competence for measuring environmental noise and there are
several universities offering Bachelor and Masters of Science courses in acoustics and
environmental noise.
A range of guidance has been reviewed during preparation of this document. Since the
purpose of this document is to offer the most recent appropriate guidance, sources that are
now obsolete have not been discussed in detail. Reference has been made to these documents
in the Bibliography. For example, guidance from the Institution of Gas Engineers is likely to
have been widely used when it was produced in 1990. However, it is now out of print and
has largely been superseded by the other more recent national standards that are discussed in
the following sections.
2.2 The Effects of Noise
The effects of noise on human beings are summarised in Figure 2.1. This illustrates how
noise complaints and annoyance can be caused through various effects. When considering a
permit level, the potential for complaints should be considered. When complaints about an
existing facility that is licensed have been received, the reason for the complaints should be
investigated. This is discussed further in Section 3.5.5.

Physiological
7 Noise induced
hearing loss
8 Other health effects
Biological Responses
Behavioural
Disturbance:
1 Distraction
2 Speech 6 Complaints/
3 Tasks 5 Annoyance Actions
Noise 4 Sleep
Socio-
psychological
factors
Figur e 2.1 Cause and Effect Relationships for Noise
Noise induced hearing loss is not a concern at the levels of noise experienced by neighbours
of noise emitting facilities. It is only a potential hazard above noise levels of at least 80
dB(A) and where exposure is over very long periods of time. The potential risk to workers is
dealt with by the Health and Safety Executive and in some cases by Local Authorities.
A distinction is made between disturbance and annoyance. Someone is disturbed by noise

when it prevents or inhibits them from undertaking an everyday activity such as
concentrating while reading (distraction), hearing spoken conversation, listening to the radio
or sleeping. The feeling of displeasure caused by noise is annoyance. Annoyance is often a
result of disturbance but not necessarily, and it can be influenced by socio-psychological
factors, such as a bias for or against the facility or person making the noise, of the
environmental expectations of an individual. Whereas disturbance can be assessed
analytically, annoyance is measured by social survey questioning, and over the years has
been used as a common indicator of overall community noise impact.
Other effects may occur as a result of vibration. These include: perceptible vibration,
secondary rattling of windows, items on shelves and pictures hanging on walls. In addition,
the sound radiated from vibrating walls may give rise to indirect effects. These effects may
contribute to annoyance.

2.3 Measur ement of Noise
2.3.1 Noise Measur ement Equipment
Various types of noise measurement equipment are commercially available. The range
includes equipment that is capable of measuring basic time varying sound pressure level and
equipment that is capable of calculating statistical noise indices over time. The first level of
sophistication is an integrating or integrating averaging sound level meter that is capable of
measuring the ‘A’ weighted equivalent sound level, LAeq. Appendix A gives a glossary of
acoustic terminology. Appendix B describes the decibel scale and provides further details on
noise measurements techniques and calculations. The next level of sophistication is a meter
that can calculate statistical noise measurement parameters such as LA90, LA10, LA01, the levels
exceeded 90, 10 and 1 percent of the measurement period. This type of noise meter is called
a statistical analyser or a statistical sound level meter. A typical example is shown in Figure
2.2.
Figur e 2.2 A Statistical Sound Level Meter
The equipment may be switched on and off manually when sufficient data has been collected,
or may be equipped with a noise logging facility. This will allow the meter to be set-up to
take one sample over a pre-defined period, store the result in its memory, start another
measurement, and repeat the process continuously.
The above meters will all be able to measure in terms of dB(A) noise levels. This is the most
commonly used scale for environmental noise studies. More sophisticated noise equipment
has additional internal frequency filters that enable measurements to be made in frequency
bands. The filters can measure the octave band components of the sound, and in some cases,
the narrower 1/3rd octave bands. Measurements in these bands can generally be used to
determine if noise contains distinctive tonal components which can make the noise more
annoying and require special attention in one of the most commonly used assessment
methods. Appendix B gives examples. It is also useful to know the frequency content of a
noise source when calculating noise attenuation from screens and enclosures and when
considering ground absorption in predictions as these effects are all frequency dependent. In
general it is harder to abate lower frequency noise (see Section 3.3)

The human ear is an extremely sensitive organ with a very large dynamic range over a wide
range of frequencies. To cater for this dynamic range the decibel (dB) scale is logarithmic
allowing the full range of audible sound levels to be expressed as a number between 1 dB
(the threshold of perception) and about 140 dB (the threshold of pain). The frequency range
that most of us can hear falls within the range 20 to 20,000 Hz. Because the ear is much less
sensitive to lower frequencies than to higher ones sound level meters are adjusted to mimic
this response. This is done by the inclusion of a sound filter, called the A-weighting. Using
the A-weighting the levels measured by a sound level meter are comparable with the levels
we perceive.
In some circumstances, tape recorders provide a useful means of capturing an event for later
analysis. This will be useful when the event is rare or when it is expensive to repeat a certain
operation for measurement purposes. An audio recording must be calibrated if absolute
levels are required. Audio recording for analytical purposes is probably best left to an
experienced consultant. Even an un-calibrated recording can be a useful memory aid when
writing a report following a site visit. Generally, DAT recorders have now replaced
traditional tape machines. The use of mini-disk recorders is becoming more common in the
acoustics industry, although care may be required if the equipment uses a signal compression
system.
Some meters are able to switch a tape recorder into record mode, and to start internal analysis
software, during noise events above a specified noise level. This again allows measurements
to be made of occasional events without an operator present during the measurements.
It is often useful to record the variation in noise over time in a graphical form. This has been
traditionally done by calibrating a paper trace so that it displays a time history of the sound
pressure level. However, with advances in electronics, noise graphs showing noise variation
over time can be made electronically for presentation in reports (see Appendix B). The most
advanced of the electronic systems allow individual events to be marked to identify the noise
source responsible for a particular noise level.
When it is important to isolate the contribution from a particular plant item to the total noise
output more complex measurements may be required. Sometimes a combination of
measurements with a sound level meter made close to different plant and calculations, can be
used to predict the contributions. In a crowded plant area, an intensity meter may be used.
An example of a situation in which this technique may be useful would be to estimate the
effect of silencing a particular machine. The advantage of this type of meter in this situation
is that noise in only a particular direction can be measured. The noise contributions from
other plant in the area can be virtually eliminated. This type of meter is now generally
available but is expensive and complex to use. However, in the hands of a skilful user
intensity meters can be used to identify the noise output of plant items in terms of their
individual sound power level and to demonstrate that it would be useful to focus noise control
effort on certain key sources. The accuracy of results in all cases will also depend on
practical measurement constraints such as access limitations to key plant that could make it
difficult to take appropriate measurements.

2.3.2 Vibr ation Measur ement Equipment
Vibration measurements are unlikely to be required in the majority of environmental

assessment situations since the vibration sensitive buildings are likely to be far enough from
the plant to avoid vibration impacts.
However, equipment is available to carry out measurements in cases where vibration is

perceptible off-site. The equipment used for an investigation should either be capable of
measuring peak particle velocity (ppv) or vibration dose values (VDV). The former is
normally used to assess the potential for building damage and the latter is used to assess the
potential for annoyance. VDV suffers from inherent complexities and a simpler approach
may be appropriate to establish if there is potential for perceptible effects in the first instance.
It is possible to establish if vibration would be perceptible by a simpler measurement of either
ppv or rms velocity (root mean square velocity). Since the assessment of vibration is more
complex than airborne noise, it is recommended that a subjective judgement is made
regarding perceptibility. If vibration may be an issue, then expert advice should be sought.
2.3.3 Measur ement Techniques
Where to Measure
The choice of measurement location is often not straightforward where noise permitting is
concerned. Clearly as a general principle we are interested in the noise level that is
experienced by the effected person or people. This usually implies we would like to measure
outside the window to the buildings that they occupy. But there can be reasons why this is
not practical and measurement must be taken elsewhere. BS4142 Method for Rating
industrial noise affecting mixed residential and industrial areas, is relevant, and states:
Choose measurement positions that are outside buildings that will give results that are
representative of the ... levels at the buildings where people are likely to be affected.
Clearly when investigating a complaint of excessive noise, measurements should be taken at

the complainants property, and access will not be a problem. Measurements may be taken
inside and outside the building. Permit levels will be set outside the windows to noise
sensitive rooms, on the basis that the attenuation through an open window will be
approximately equal for any noise sensitive building (this is the basis of applicable noise
standards for environmental noise). But it will not always be possible to carry out noise
monitoring at the receiver’s building because access may not be available.
The site boundary is a readily available location for setting a permit level which can be
checked. If receivers are close to the boundary the situation is straightforward, but if not it
would imply calculating noise levels at the receivers. Appendix B gives some examples of
how this can be done, but calculation will not be as accurate as measurement and it should
always be considered preferable to enforce noise limits by measurement at sensitive
receivers.
A planning condition may already have been set limiting noise emissions beyond the site
boundary in order to safeguard future noise sensitive development in the vicinity. In cases
where new noise sensitive development is possible then enforcing noise levels at the site
boundary may be appropriate.

There can be problems with measuring at site boundaries due to local screening effects, for
example by a boundary wall. In these cases the monitoring location should to chosen to best
mimic the screening effect at the nearest receivers, so that any interpolation by calculation is
as simple as possible, in order to minimise the error in the calculation process. Judgement
will be required to determine the best compromise location to the adopted, but it should
always be chosen to be as representative of the levels at noise sensitive buildings as possible.
BS 7385 (1) describes a measurement method for vibration. Locations for measurement are
recommended. BS 6472 (2) relates to measurements affecting human exposure to vibration.
The guidance in this standard suggests that measurements should be made at the locations
where people will be affected by the vibration eg living or sleeping areas.
Measurement Procedures
Measurement microphones are prone to slight changes in sensitivity under changing climatic
conditions and it is important that all equipment is calibrated so that measurements are
robust. The equipment will need to be returned to a laboratory for full calibration at intervals
of one to two years. Equipment should conform with the relevant standards (including BS
EN 60651: 1994, BS EN 60804: 1994 and BS EN 60942: 1998). The calibration of noise
measurement equipment should be checked on-site before and after measurement with an
acoustic calibrator. Vibration calibrators are also available for some equipment which can be
used in an equivalent way.
Standard measurement methodologies, for noise measurement, are contained in BS 7445 (3)
(which is equivalent to ISO 1996) and BS 4142 (4). The relevant conditions can be
summarised as follows:
· measurements should be taken between 1.2 to 1.5 m above the ground;

· measurements should either be taken under free-field conditions (more than 3.5 m from
any reflecting surface) or at 1 m from the facade of a building and results treated
accordingly (when a noise source is incident on a facade, the effect of reflected noise from
the facade is generally to increase the ‘facade level’ measured at 1m by 3 dB); and
· measurements should not be made if average wind speed exceeds 5 m/s.
Appendix C contains standard forms that can be used for recording noise complaints and
measurements.
Environmental noise measurements are subject to an unavoidable tolerance that may be due
to:
· weather;
· source term variation;
· ground attenuation effects; and
· time of measurement and duration.
(1) BS 7385 Evaluation and measurement for vibration in buildings Part 1 Guide for measurement of vibrations and evaluation of their effects on
buildings, BSi, 1990.
(2) BS 6472 Guide to Evaluation of human exposure to vibration in buildings (1 Hz to 80 Hz), BSi, 1992.
(3) BS 7445 Description and measurement of environmental noise Parts 1 to 4, BSi, 1991.
(4) British Standard BS 4142 Method for rating industrial noise affecting mixed residential and industrial areas, Bsi (1997).

These are discussed below.
Weather - Noise propagation can be affected by wind and temperature gradients and changes
in relative humidity. Fog, snow and thick mist may also affect the noise levels that are
recorded. Wind may affect the results by causing rustling of foliage, buffeting the
microphone or enhancing or inhibiting the propagation or sound. Wind speeds above 5 m/s
should be avoided. Measurements over large distances can show substantial variations with
wind direction, with typically 2dB increases downwind and up to 10dB decreases upwind
being possible. Dry weather and calm conditions are preferred.
Source Strength Variation - Variations in operating patterns of the licensed facility should be
considered when taking measurements. The measurement should be taken over a period that
is sufficient to obtain a representative sample. If the noise is intermittent or cyclic, a number
of cycles may need to be recorded including the noisiest operational modes. Records of
operational conditions during measurements should be obtained from the operator of the
facility.
Ground Attenuation Effects - The presence of acoustically soft ground can lead to a reduction
in noise level at the receptor due to absorption of noise energy reflected from the ground
particularly where propagation distances are high. Examples of acoustically Soft ground are
grassed areas, areas under crops, and forests with ground covering vegetation. Areas that are
concreted or otherwise sealed, or areas of water are acoustically hard. The presence of soft
ground between the facility and the receptor point should be noted. If the effect is seasonal
due to variations in ground cover, measurements may need to be taken at a time when ground
cover is at a minimum if this corresponds to a time when public reaction is likely to be
highest. Alternatively, measurements could be made close to items of plant and a prediction
could be made with no attenuation factor for ground attenuation included. This would
indicate the highest likely noise levels that would be experienced at the receptors.
Extrapolated levels may be subject to some uncertainty and it is not uncommon for predicted
results to be quoted along with an estimate of accuracy.
Time of Measurement and Duration - The time at which measurements are made may affect
the noise levels that are measured. If a survey is intended to establish background noise level
from which noise limits will be derived for a new facility the following should apply:
· the survey should include night-time measurements unless the facility will not operate at
night;
· night-time measurements will normally take place between midnight to 0400 hours (when
traffic noise and other human activity is at its lowest);
· if the maximum difference between the noise level from the facility and the background
noise level is expected to occur during a time other than the night, a further survey should
be carried out during that period.
When a survey is designed to check ambient noise levels with a facility operating, the survey
should include night-time measurements when background noise levels are normally at their
lowest so that the noise contribution from the plant is at its highest.
Measurements should be carried out over a sufficient period of time to establish typical
average noise levels, and if necessary, maximum noise levels, from the facility. Appendix B

gives further information on measurement periods. It is good practice to repeat
measurements to gain extra certainty in the results because of all the factors described above.
Noise measurements made within buildings may require different considerations, and various
guidelines are available, such as those produced by the Association of Noise Consultants (5).
2.4 Pr ediction of Noise
2.4.1 Why Ar e Pr edictions Necessar y?
Noise predictions are useful in two main situations:
· At a proposed facility where noise must be quantified before construction to ensure that no
noise problems will result from the facility and to allow a permit noise limit to be set.
· At existing sites where there is a need to review the effectiveness of various noise control
techniques and to enable a reasonable permit level to be established that takes into account
the Best Available Techniques to limit noise.
It should however be noted that a predicted noise level will not be as accurate as a measured
one.
2.4.2 How Ar e Noise Pr edictions Car r ied Out?
Common prediction methods are discussed in this section. The main methods that are used to
predict noise in the UK are CONCAWE (6) , EEMUA (7) , and BS 5228 (8). Other
standards also exist for prediction.
For complex sites computer programs are useful. These implement a range of standards
which is often dependent on the country of origin of the prediction program. Standard
computer programs implement:
· ISO 9613 Part 1 /Part 2 (9)

· CONCAWE
· EEMUA
· standards for industrial noise from Germany, Scandinavia, and Austria.
Whilst noise from mechanical plant can generally be quantified quite reliably, the prediction
of variable source noise from gas flares etc can only be achieved by consulting the methods
developed in specialist research papers. These specialist areas are not generally included in
the computer programs.
(5) Association of Noise Consultants Guidelines – Noise measurements in buildings (ANC-C9801) – Part 2: Noise from external sources (eg traffic
noise) within buildings, 1998, Association of Noise Consultants.
(6) The propagation of noise from petroleum and petrochemical complexes to neighbouring communities, CONCAWE, Den Haag, 1981.
(7)Guidance on the use of noise specification EEMUA publication 141, The Engineering Equipment and Materials Users Association (EEMUA),
1985
(8) Noise control on construction and open sites: BSi, 1997.
(9) ISO9613 Acoustics - Attenuation of sound during propagation outdoors, ISO, 1993.

The basic method in BS 5228 can be implemented at a simple level if the factors such as
ground absorption and air absorption are not critical to the assessment. This will often
provide a quick method of carrying out an initial assessment. Care must be taken to apply
correction factors that are appropriate to the source involved. For instance, the ground
absorption factors in BS 5228 are intended for use with construction plant and should not be
used without checking that the frequency content of equipment under investigation is likely
to be consistent with the construction plant in BS 5228. BS 5228 does not include a method
of predicting noise from plane or line sources, such as buildings louvres and large plant.
2.4.3 Advantages and Disadvantages of Noise Pr edictions
Table 2.1 shows some advantages and disadvantages of various aspects of noise modelling.
Table 2.1 Advantages and Disadvantages of Pr ediction

Advantage Disadvantage Comment
Cost Reduces abortive/ineffective noise control spend
Cost Expensive to set up accurate prediction for small sites.
Cost of software can be significant.
Strategic Focuses effort on important sources

information
Uncertainty in Any noise prediction is subject to variation due to
output uncertainty in input parameters. Measurement may be
required to supplement the modelling approach.
Complex The complexity of a model will depend on various

factors. Suitable qualified practitioners should be
consulted before establishing modelling technique.
At existing plants, a combination of modelling and measurement can be the most effective
approach. Measurements can be made to establish the noise output from the facility. If
changes to a particular plant item are being considered, the effect of replacing it with a
quieter item can be predicted. Predictions are only required for the equipment items that may
be subject to change using this method.
2.5 Assessment of Noise
2.5.1 Intr oduction
The licensing system applies to two situations:
· greenfield sites where no industrial noise is currently audible and a new facility is
proposed; and
· areas where noise from industrial and commercial facilities has been a significant feature
of the environment for a long period.

· There is a need to consider the relevant assessment approach. In the UK, some guidance
(eg BS 4142 (10)) compares background levels with the new noise from a plant. Absolute
levels can also be considered, for example to assess the effect on sleep which is triggered
at an absolute level independent of the location. Even when a noise limit is set as an
absolute level, one may need to consider the existing ambient levels if they are already
close to the limit that is to be set.
In all cases, it will be important that the local conditions are taken into account. Consultation
with the Local Authority will be helpful when determining the approach to be adopted.
2.5.2 Relevant Methodologies
Guidance that is applicable to the IPPC and the waste management licensing regime are
summarised below. Appendix D gives a fuller explanation of each document.
Planning Policy Guidance PPG24
PPG24 outlines the Government’s view on noise and planning. The guidance focuses on the
planning of new noise-sensitive development in already noisy environments (PAN 56 (11) in
Scotland and TAN11 in Wales are very similar). In the case of proposed noise-producing
development affecting existing noise-sensitive premises, PPG24 advises that British Standard
BS 4142 can be used, within its own terms of reference, to predict the likelihood of
complaints. PPG24 draws attention to the greater potential for complaints to arise if
industrial noise has tonal or impulsive characteristics.
British Standard BS 4142
The test that is generally applied to assess the potential for noise from fixed installations to
give rise to community response is contained in British Standard BS 4142: 1997. BS 4142
describes a method for desegregating industrial and background noise levels outside
residential buildings and for assessing whether the industrial noise is likely to give rise to
complaints from the occupants.
The BS 4142 assessment methodology involves comparing the existing background level
with the noise from the industrial development. The industrial noise level is adjusted to allow
for any tonal or impulsive characteristics (+ 5 dB), and is called the Rating Level. The
difference between the two levels can be used to indicate the likelihood of complaints arising.
Appendix D gives further details.
There is a feeling within the industry that a revision to BS 4142 should be considered after it
comes up for review in 2002, particularly with regards to the rating method.
(10) British Standard BS 4142 (1997) Method for rating industrial noise affecting mixed residential and industrial areas.
(11) Planning Advisory Note 56 Planning and Noise, Scottish Office, 1999.

World Health Organisation
WHO published their latest guidelines on noise in December 1999 as the WHO Guidelines
for Community Noise (12). The guidance quotes over 300 bibliographical references and
forms an authoritative summary of scientific knowledge on the health impacts of community
noise.
The document covers many aspects of community noise, the most relevant of which may be
guidelines noise values for dwellings. The guidance suggests that for continuous noise an
internal LAeq below 30 dB is required if negative effects on sleep are to be avoided, and where
the background noise is low levels above LAMax 45 dB should be limited. Information on the
complex nature of sleep disturbance due to noise is given as background to these values and
others.
It is important to note the declared scope of WHO’s efforts is to consolidate actual scientific
knowledge on health impacts rather than to set standards that might be applicable to given
situations.
British Standard 8233
Planning Policy Guidance PPG24 suggests that BS 8233(13) should be used if it is necessary
to consider noise levels within buildings. This may be the case if the affected buildings are
non-residential or if external areas are not of concern and for some reason acoustic insulation
packages are already installed at a building.
BS 8233 gives recommendations for the control of noise in and around buildings, and
suggests appropriate criteria and limits for different situations. The standard makes it clear
that these cr iter ia and limits ar e pr imar ily intended to guide the design of new or
r efur bished buildings, r ather than to assess the effects of changes in exter nal noise level.
The criteria and limits given are therefore of limited relevance to IPPC or waste management
permitting situations. However, the standard contains other general information on noise
control and noise calculations that may be useful.
British Standard BS 5228
BS 5228 (14) provides guidance on the control of construction and open site noise. It
provides:
· a prediction method for construction plant noise;

· standard sound power levels for a wide range of construction plant; and
· some advice on appropriate noise levels during construction.
The prediction method is the most helpful part in terms of IPPC and waste management
licensing and could be used to predict noise at open sites, particularly landfill and quarry
sites.
(12) Guidelines for Community Noise , WHO, 1999.

(13) BS 8233: Sound insulation and noise reduction for buildings – Code of practice, BSi, 1999.
(14) Bs 5228: Noise control on construction and open sites, BSi, 1997.

Minerals Planning Guidance MPG11
Minerals Planning Guidance MPG11 (15) describes the government’s policy on noise from
Surface Mineral Workings. MPG11 notes that waste disposal sites share many common
features with surface mineral working, and much of the advice contained in these guidelines
will be appropriate to noise control for such operations. As such, MPG11 is useful for
assessing the noise from landfill operations. MPG11 recommends the use of BS 5228 to
predict noise levels. This document is under review at the date of writing.
The Engineering Equipment and Material Users Association Guide to the Use of Noise
Procedure Specification EEMUA publication 141 (1985).
The EEMUA method describes measurement of noise from plants, and using prediction to
investigate the effect of implementing noise control. It also suggests low frequency noise
limits that may be appropriate for some sources.
British Standard BS 6472.
This standard gives a method of assessing vibration effects on human beings. Criteria are
included that indicate likely levels of annoyance from vibration exposure.
Institute of Environmental Assessment and the Institute of Acoustics Guidelines on

Environmental Impact Assessment
An important UK guidance document on assessment methods is expected to be published by

the Institute of Environmental Assessment and the Institute of Acoustics. This document will
cover the main features of an environmental noise assessment.
· baseline;
· prediction;
· assessment;
· mitigation;
· presentation; and
· follow up.
It will provide sufficient guidance to enable a reviewer to check that everything has been
properly carried out in an environmental noise study. It is also likely to highlight that one
single assessment method is not appropriate to all situations.
Further details of the above guidance documents are presented in Appendix D.
2.5.3 Futur e Tr ends
The European Commission published a Green Paper on Future Noise Policy in 1996. As part
of the closer co-operation with other European countries, harmonisation of noise assessment
methods is currently being investigated by European Commission Working Groups drawn
from EU Member States. Prospective EU legislation concerning this Policy is likely to be
implemented between 2002 and 2003. The draft European Directive for the Assessment and
(15) The control of Noise at Surface Mineral Workings, DoE, 1993.

Reduction of Environmental Noise (July 2000) is currently being progressed by the European
Parliament.
It is likely that the Directive will encourage environmental noise measurements to be based
on a variation of LAeq with adjustments made to the noise level if the noise occurs during
sensitive periods such as evening or night. Such standardised units will be used for reporting
noise exposure at a national level, but are unlikely to be appropriate to setting noise permit
levels in given situations.
It is also possible that the EC will propose noise targets. However, these will be long term
national population noise exposure targets, and are unlikely to have a major influence on
limits for industrial noise set in given situations. The new Directive is likely to raise public
awareness of noise pollution and could conceivably raise public expectations in the long term
and add weight to the noise permitting process.
Part of this legislation will require ‘noise mapping’ of urban areas. The intention will be to
highlight sensitive urban/suburban areas that are affected by high ambient noise levels, and to
help develop suitable mitigation procedures to help safeguard human health and reduce levels
of annoyance and disturbance. In the first instance, it is likely that the proposed legislation
will require conurbations with a population greater than 250,000 to be noise mapped by 2005.
Noise Abatement Plans would then be produced to tackle the issues identified for these areas
by 2006 (these dates are subject to revision). This requirement would also be applied to
conurbations with a population greater than 100,000 a few years later.
By preparing a noise level map based on all noise sources information would be available
about the effect of strategic changes on total noise levels. Local noise effects around
particular facilities will always need specific studies. The results of IPPC and waste
management licensing may be useful input to local authority efforts to carry out noise
mapping and to progress abatement plans to improve overall noise exposure in the long term.
2.5.4 Conclusions/Setting Tar gets
The guidance that is summarised above can be used to establish suitable design targets for the
permit. Different guidance documents are most applicable to different situations. Much of
this guidance is aimed at avoiding nuisance, and it should be noted that Best Available
Techniques may go beyond the requirements for avoiding nuisance.
It is generally better to set noise permit levels at the nearest noise sensitive buildings, but it
may be appropriate to set them at the site boundary, for example for access reasons.
The inspector will need to take local circumstances into account in setting this target and
consultation with the Local Authority should be carried out at an early stage.
The target will also need to be reasonable and will need to take into account noise reductions
that are achievable using Best Available Techniques. These are described in the following
section.

3 BEST AVAILABLE TECHNIQUES FOR NOISE CONTROL
3.1 Intr oduction
This chapter summarises the multitude of techniques that are available to control noise
emissions from the range of noise sources that are likely to be encountered at the type of
facilities that will require licensing under the IPPC and Waste Management Regulations.
Many of these noise sources can be controlled using common techniques such as noise
barriers or enclosures, others require unique solutions. This chapter gives an overview of the
most commonly used techniques, many of which are applicable to numerous situations.
Active noise control, the latest hi-tech noise control technique, is described separately.
This chapter also provides a discussion of administrative noise control options under the
headings Noise Management Practices and Alternatives to Noise Control.
In order to understand what constitutes the best noise control technique in a given situation,
and the shortcomings of some techniques, it is helpful to have a general understanding of the
mechanisms through which noise can be attenuated. The following sections offer an
introduction to the general principles of noise control.
3.2 How Sound is Attenuated
Sound passes through the air as a pressure wave. The amplitude of that pressure wave can be
reduced by several means. In open space a sound wave will naturally reduce in amplitude as
it moves from source to receiver through two principal mechanisms; spherical spreading - the
natural dilution of the sound energy as it is spread over a widening area, and absorption - due
to frictional forces in the air. Spherical spreading reduces the sound level radiating away
from a point source at the rate of 6 dB for every doubling of distance from the source. Over
small distances (up to a few hundred meters) absorption can generally be ignored as its effect
is minor compared to that of spherical spreading. If the level of noise generation at source
cannot be reduced, two methods of noise control are commonly used; increasing distance or
increasing attenuation. Increasing distance from source to receiver is usually only possible at
the planning stage, and can be extremely effective, but in many cases the sound wave must be
attenuated through additional means. This usually involves blocking the sound path with a
solid structure of some kind.
3.3 Sound Attenuation Thr ough Str uctur es
Sound incident on a solid structure, such as a wall, has one of four paths to follow. It is either
reflected back away from the wall, it passes directly through the wall or it passes along the
wall and may be radiated away from its structure somewhere else (the so called re-radiated
noise path). Noise may also pass around the end of the wall or over the top to form another
flanking path. Let us consider each of these paths in turn, and how they effect the attenuation
that is achieved by the structure.
3.3.1 Reflected Sound
The reflection of sound back from a structure is useful in reducing the level of sound that
passes through, but there is a potential disadvantage too. If the noise source is enclosed,
reflected sound will be trapped within the enclosure and will result in reverberation of sound.

This reverberant sound may build up within the enclosed space and increase the apparent
strength of the sound source. This can be combated by adding acoustic absorption to the
enclosed space, for example with mineral fibre quilting in acoustic panels. Barriers may also
be covered in absorptive material on the side facing the source to increase their effectiveness.
3.3.2 Flanking Paths and Re-r adiated Noise
There are various types of flanking paths. Sound may pass along a structure for some
distance and radiate away from it somewhere else, for example as a result of vibration being
transmitted through the plant supports into the floor, along the floor into the walls and
radiating away from the walls to the outside of a building. Or sound may simply diffract
around the edge of the structure, for example under the eaves of a roof. Flanking paths can
reduce the acoustic performance of the structure and should not be ignored when a high
performance is needed.
3.3.3 Tr ansmitted Sound
The portion of the incident sound wave that passes through the structure is first converted
into vibrational energy in the structure and then back to air-borne vibrational energy as it is
radiated away from the far side. The extent to which this process attenuates the sound
depends on two key characteristics of the structure; its mass and its stiffness.
3.3.4 The Effect of Mass
It is mass that attenuates sound through frictional losses, the greater the mass the greater the
attenuation. This attenuation depends on the frequency of the sound, higher frequencies are
absorbed more easily than low frequencies. As a result, a common feature of noise control is
that it is nearly always more difficult to attenuate low frequency noise than high frequencies.
This problem is accentuated when a long propagation distance is involved because air
absorption will effect higher frequencies far more than lower frequencies. The result is that
low frequency noise tends to ‘travel’ more than high frequency noise.
Mathematically, the relationship between sound reduction, mass (M), and frequency (f) are
given in the ‘Mass Law’ of sound insulation as follows:
· Sound Reduction = 20 log Mf - 43
Or, stated in words:
· At a given frequency, sound reduction increases by about 6 dB for each doubling of mass;
and
· For a given mass, the sound reduction increases by about 6 dB for each doubling of
frequency.
These are idealised relationships that ignore other mechanisms that may effect attenuation in
given materials, such as the effect of stiffness, discussed below.

3.3.5 The Effect of Stiffness
The stiffness of the structure will control the extent to which it flexes under the influence of
the incident sound wave. A structure that is flexing will radiate sound as it oscillates at the
frequency of that oscillation. If a structure has very low stiffness this can form a very
efficient route for sound to pass through. Even heavy walls can allow sound to pass through
them in this way because flat structures such as walls or windows have a natural frequency at
which they will oscillate easily if energy of that frequency if put into them. Hence, only very
specific frequencies of sound are transferred through structures in this way. Nonetheless
because the process transfers noise very efficiently it can lead to substantial losses of
attenuation performance at given frequencies.
3.3.6 Holes, Openings, and Bar r ier s
For a noise attenuating structure to be effective it must completely block the sound
transmission path. Any hole or opening in the structure will greatly reduce its acoustic
performance. For example, if a wall or partition capable of attenuating sound by 25 dB has
an opening in it with an area that is 10% of the area if the wall, its performance will be
reduced from 25 dB to about 10 dB. Sound can be thought to behave rather like a liquid in
such cases, it will simply pour through the easiest route it can find. Similarly sound will flow
round a structure if allowed to do so. More correctly speaking sound will diffract around the
edge of a structure. It is the ease with which sound diffracts around structures that limits the
performance of noise barriers which only partly block the sound transmission path. This is
also the reason why tree planting is not usually an effective noise control technique. Sound
does not move in straight lines.
3.4 Noise Contr ol Equipment
3.4.1 Intr oduction
This section provides a description of noise control equipment that is available to attenuate
noise from commonly encountered sources of noise found at facilities covered by the
regulations. The equipment is divided into two types; ‘conventional or passive noise control
equipment’ such as acoustic enclosures and barriers, and ‘active noise control’ which uses
modern electronics to produce an acoustic signal that partly cancels out the unwanted noise.
Active systems are also available for vibration cancellation.
3.4.2 Conventional Noise Contr ol Equipment
Noise control is a highly developed industry and there are numerous manufacturers producing
a huge range of equipment designed for particular applications. However, there are common
types of equipment that use particular techniques and materials to attenuate noise. This
section provides descriptions of 11 generic types of noise control equipment that account for
the majority of the equipment used by the noise control industry.
The description of each type of equipment is presented in Appendix E as a one page

information sheet giving:
· a photograph or picture;
· description - including some of its advantages and/or limitations;

· the application - a list of the noise sources to which it can be applied;
· the acoustic performance; and
· the cost.
The use of this standard information sheet format is intended to make the information concise
and accessible.
Table 3.1 cross-references the 11 types of noise control equipment with a list of noisy plant
that may commonly be encountered at regulated facilities. For many noise sources there are
more than one noise control option.
The costs, benefits and other implications of these types of noise control equipment are
discussed in Section 4.

Table 3.1 Noise Contr ol Equipment Applications
Noise Sour ce Acoustic Steam Vibr ation
Acoustic Noise Acoustic Acoustic Acoustic Impact Iner tia
Enclosur e Attenuator Tr ap Isolation
louvr e Bar r ier Panelling Lagging Damping Damping Bases
Diffuser Mount
Infor mation Sheet
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
No.
Boiler
X X X X X X X X
Chiller
X X X X X X X
Conveyor
X X X X X X
Compressor
X X X X X X X X
Duct
X X X X
Fan
X X X X X X X X X
Generator
X X X X X X X
Hopper
X X X X X
Lorry/digger etc
X X X X X
Materials handling
X X X X X
Pump
X X X X X X X X
Press
X X X X X X X X
Gas discharge
X X X

3.4.3 Active Noise Contr ol
Active noise control is the term used to describe the process through which noise is reduced
by introducing a sound wave that is an inverse, or mirror-image of the unwanted noise. This
cancellation wave, which is of equal amplitude and frequency, but of opposite phase,
destructively interferes with the noise without physically blocking the sound path. It is
therefore fundamentally different from conventional noise control techniques and has
potential advantages. But is also has limitations and is expensive. The main applications of
active noise control up to now have been ear defenders, fan and pump noise in industry, noise
from air-conditioning systems and aircraft interior noise.
A typical active noise control system consists of an input microphone that detect the
unwanted noise, a controller system that generates the ‘anti-noise’, a loudspeaker that emits
the anti-noise and a further error microphone that is used to refine the anti-noise signal via the
controller. The main limitation of the process is the speed at which the system can react to a
rapidly varying noise signal. So, it is most effective for noise signals that are predictable like
pure tones, and it is less effective on higher frequency noise because the higher the
frequency, the more rapid the signal fluctuates and the electronics cannot keep up.
Attenuations of 25 dB or more are achievable for pure tones, whilst 15-20 dB is a more
realistic upper limit for broad band noise (ie noise consisting of acoustic energy in a wide
range of frequency bands).
A well developed and effective application of active noise control in industry is for in-duct
fan noise attenuation. The earliest applications were built about 10 years ago. The problem
of poor performance at higher frequency can sometimes be overcome by adding a
conventional duct silencer that is inherently more effective at the higher frequencies. Active
noise control has one notable advantage in ducted fan noise application. Conventional
silencers restrict airflow, which produces an additional load on the fan that drives the air and
thus increases the energy consumption of the fan. The active control system itself uses very
little power and overall power consumption savings can be 10-20%.
Active control systems can be damaged by high temperatures or wet conditions and are
therefore less suited to outside applications. Furthermore external applications tend to
require high levels of acoustic energy at the source and there are limitations as to how much
anti-noise energy can be generated at low frequencies. Nonetheless active noise control is
used for reducing noise emissions from industrial sites, and is effective particularly where
low frequency tonal noise cannot be attenuated by other means. In Case Study 3 active noise
control was considered but it was discarded largely because of costs which are typically about
£4,000 for a single fan.
3.5 Noise Management Pr actices
3.5.1 Intr oduction
For some operational facilities there are effective ways of reducing noise simply by being
aware of its presence as an issue for the site, and by adopting appropriate procedures when
carrying out every day activities. Such procedures can be collectively called ‘noise
management’ and can be particularly important where substantial noise control has been
incorporated in a plant design. Noise management may be part of an overall Environmental

Management System, in which case it may be subject to routine auditing and reporting
requirements.
3.5.2 Routine Maintenance of Plant
Noise is usually generated in mechanical plant by the interaction of moving, and often
rotating, parts. Over time these parts tend to wear, stretch or become distorted in some way
and the levels of noise generated tend to increase. Common examples include bearings, gear
chains, rollers and engines. Routine maintenance or servicing of such equipment can have a
significant effect on noise output.
Noise control equipment can also degrade with time and require servicing or replacement.
Engine silencers are a prime example. Acoustic panelling can become clogged, waterlogged
and distorted and hence will become less effective.
3.5.3 Good Oper ational Site Pr actices
There are a number of common sense procedures that can help to reduce noise emissions.
Although these tend to be specific to operations at particular facility some common examples
are listed as follows:
· closing doors and windows in noisy buildings and acoustic enclosures;

· ensuring that generator or vehicle engine hatches are kept closed;
· locating mobile plant away from noise sensitive receivers where possible;
· avoiding dropping metallic materials from a height;
· switching off plant when not in use;
· stock piling materials (eg containers) so as to provide acoustic screening between noise
sources and receivers; and
· arranging delivery or on site vehicle routes away from sensitive receivers.
Although the noise reduction benefits of these practices can be difficult to quantify, they
should form a routine part of best practice to reduce overall noise emissions.
3.5.4 Restr icting Oper ating Hour s
The sensitivity of neighbouring areas to noise impacts will vary with the time of day and on
different days of the week/weekend. Much of the guidance material described in Section 2
recognises this by applying more stringent standards for the evening (generally taken as 1900
to 2300 hours) and night (2300 to 0700 hours) compared to daytime. The Irish EPA IPC
licensing guidelines on noise (16) are in line with other guidance in suggesting a 10 dB
differential between day and night in the absence of more detailed information. Restricting
the operating hours of noisy activities can be an extremely effective way of mitigating
community noise impacts and is often used, to great effect, in planning conditions for new
facilities. Restricting operating hours can of course reduce productivity and create
operational difficulties, but it need not necessarily require a complete cessation of all activity
on the site. In some cases it will be possible to schedule noisy operations to the less sensitive
daytime, weekday periods in order to keep noise emissions to a minimum at night.
(16) Integrated Pollution Control Licensing, Guidance Note for Noise In Relation to Scheduled Activities, Irish Environmental Protection Agency,
1995.

3.5.5 Community Liaison
Some plants require occasional unavoidably noisy procedures to be followed such as

'blowing down' pressurised systems and testing emergency generators. There is evidence that
the impact of noise from such activities can be reduced simply by warning the community
beforehand. Often, the fact that a member of the public has been informed, and is aware that
the operator is being as considerate as possible will reduce the level of disturbance caused.
For one thing people will tend to schedule particularly noise-sensitive activities away from
such periods. Of course the operator should try to schedule the noisy operations
sympathetically too. An example of this is the testing of emergency generators in
commercial areas where there are no residential buildings, on Sundays. More generally,
keeping the community aware of noise control activities and plans will offer long term
benefits to all parties, and should be encouraged.
Complaints due to noise should be treated in a constructive manner. They can often provide
the operator with guidance on the main source of concern and the best approach to mitigating
the problem. Appendix C provides a standard form to illustrate the key information that
should be sought from a complainant. A general procedure for handling a noise complaint is
as follows:
1. The complaint is logged.
2. The facility under consideration is visited immediately to inquire:

· if the operator knows what the source of the noise could be; and
· if the noise could be due to an unusual activity.
3. The source of excessive noise is investigate by inspection to see if there is an obvious

remedy, if so it is implemented and the complainant is updated.
4. If no remedy is implemented, and excessive noise is suspected, noise monitoring is

carried out to help identify the source and the extent of any noise impact.
5. If monitoring identifies a noise impact remedial work is planned and implemented, the
complainant is advised of progress.
6. Repeat monitoring is carried out to establish whether the remedial work has been
successful.
7. The complainant is advised and the logged complaint is signed-off as having been
properly addressed.
It is important that throughout this process the complainant is kept updated of progress,
particularly if the investigations take some time.
3.6 Planning Noise Contr ol
The ideal time to consider noise control is at the initial planning stage of a new facility.
Similar opportunities may arise during the lifetime of a facility when planning an extension
or when old plant is being replaced (see Case Study 1). At this stage potential noise problems

can be 'designed out' rather than being left to be addressed later through a bolt on, end of pipe
solution. This approach can not only produce more effective noise control but tends to be
more cost effective too.
In some cases there will be planning restrictions governing what can be done on the site and
these can limit the options for noise control, but in general consideration should be given the
following general principals:
· use of inherently quieter processes (eg Case Study 1, see Appendix F);
· selection of inherently quiet plant or 'low noise options';
· site layout to maximise natural screening, screening by buildings, and separation
distances;
· orientation of directional noise sources away from sensitive receivers; and
· noise barriers and bunding.
In the particular case of landfill sites the design of the filling sequence can influence the
extent of noise screening by filled material, and hence can be used to maximise screening for
particular noise-sensitive areas.
Tree planting may provide effective mitigation of visual impacts but rarely reduces noise.
For trees to have significant attenuation benefits they will need to be planted very close
together and to cover a substantial propagation distance, for example a substantial mature
woodland.

4 COSTS, BENEFITS AND IMPLICATIONS OF NOISE CONTROL
4.1 Intr oduction
This section discusses the overall implications of the various noise control techniques that
have been described above. In addition to the acoustic benefit achieved, long-term costs in
both monetary and environmental terms are considered. It is not appropriate to attempt a cost
benefits analysis of different noise control techniques because in most remedial situations the
choice of noise control options will be limited by practical operational factors and there may
be only one feasible solution.
4.2 Cost Benefits
4.2.1 Summar y of Benefits
The methods of noise control described in this report have generally been in widespread use
for many years (with the exception of active noise control). It is because acoustic hardware
provides tangible noise benefits for modest costs that it used so commonly. The installation
of a suitable piece of acoustic hardware typically provides several decibels of attenuation and
can achieve up to about 50 dB, although this is rare in practice. Of course, the reduction in
the overall noise level from a facility tends to be less because there are usually many sources
of noise that add up at the receiver point, all of which may potentially need acoustic
treatment. Nonetheless, in environmental terms the noise benefits achieved represent
significant improvements in the noise climate experiences by local communities (Appendix B
describes how changes in noise are perceived, eg a 10 dB reduction is perceived as a halving
of noise level). Such reductions are commonly achievable through tried and tested
techniques. There are also benefits to the workforce who will experience a more pleasant
work environment.
4.2.2 Costs
The cost of acoustic hardware varies hugely depending on the application. A simple fan
silencer may cost a few hundred pounds, whereas it is not uncommon for power stations to
incur noise control costs measured in millions of pounds (see Case Study 5). Compared to
initial construction costs and ongoing operational costs, the costs of noise control are usually
affordable, except to businesses operating on very low margins where only the cheaper
methods can be used.
Noise control through good planning generally has minimal costs and potentially substantial
noise reduction benefits. Ongoing noise management has minimal costs but generally the
benefits are smaller. Figure 4.1 summarises, in general terms, the relative cost benefits of
some of the noise control methods that have been discussed in this report.

40 dB
Enclosures & Silencers

Active Noise
Planning for Noise
Noise Benefit
Control
Damping &
Barriers &
Louvres
Lagging
manage
Noise
ment
0 dB
Cost
Figur e 4.1 Cost Benefits of Noise Contr ol
Noise management may be cost effective, but will rarely offer a complete solution to a
serious noise problem. Low cost acoustic hardware, represented in the central part of the
figure, may be affordable and may offer sufficient noise reduction in many cases, but in
severe cases where acoustic enclosure and silencers are required costs will be higher. Active
noise control is a relatively expensive method, but can provide a solution where other
techniques cannot, ie for severe low frequency noise problems. This figure illustrates once
again that planning for noise control will invariably offer the most cost-effective solution.
4.3 Gener al Implications
For an operational facility there will usually be restrictions as to which choice of noise
control method to pursue because of the practicalities of retrofitting equipment and the long
term implications of having it in place. There may be a lack of space, insufficient access for
maintenance, safety implications or any number of difficulties to contend with.
Noise control equipment may also interfere with the correct operation of the plant, for
example by placing it under increased load. Most noise control equipment works by blocking
the path by which noise is emitted. This will tend to also block airflow and cooling which
could increase wear in the plant and have long term maintenance and cost implications.
These problems are not incurred by active noise control, although some maintenance will be
required and speakers do wear out.
Noise management practices will rarely conflict with the safe operation of the plant as they
are aimed at ensuring operatives use noise control features as they were designed to be used.
When planning a site layout with noise control in mind there will be numerous other
considerations that will require careful consideration in achieving an optimal site and plant
layout. However, in the past noise control has tended to be left until last and it should be
considered along with all other factors in a balanced way during the conceptual and detailed
design process.

4.4 Envir onmental Implications
4.4.1 Ener gy Consumption
Passive equipment added to a plant has the capacity to increase energy consumption by
adding mass and restricting the free operation of the plant. Attenuators fitted to fans impede
air flow and hence put additional load on the fan. This increased load, quantified as ‘pressure
drop’ can be minimised by using a silencer with more open splitters but of greater length if
there is space. Sometimes performance is increased by using two silencers in series.
However, inevitably some extra load is created and more energy is required to drive the air
flow. This effect is more severe when adding attenuators to high velocity air flows, such as
in the inlet and discharge stacks to gas turbines in power stations. In high velocity air flows
attenuators produce higher pressure drops which can have an appreciable effect on the
efficiency of the gas turbine and hence the whole power generation process. For example, a
stack silencer producing a pressure drop of 30 millibars can reduce overall power generating
efficiency by 2%. Consequently acoustic engineers work to tight guidelines when designing
and selecting such attenuators.
4.4.2 Raw Mater ial Usage
The manufacture, servicing, replacement and decommissioning of acoustic hardware all

require natural resources. There are clear advantages in choosing an inherently quiet process
or low noise plant option rather than bolting on noise control equipment. Where acoustic
hardware creates additional mechanical or heat load the life of the plant may potentially be
shortened which will also have resource implications. These will not be major concerns for
smaller installations, but they may be more important in sectors such as the power industry
where more substantial resources are involved.
Acoustic hardware generally has a lifetime of many years and is largely maintenance free.
As such it generates very little waste when operational. Acoustic panels can degenerate
under adverse conditions, for example if they became very wet the infill material may need
replacing from time to time. There has been concern that very fine mineral fibres can be
hazardous, but safer products have been developed.

5 CASE STUDIES
5.1 Intr oduction
The Study Brief put a clear emphasis on case studies to illustrate how noise control is used in
practice. In particular case studies were requested to:
· demonstrate cost-effective solutions;

· show simple 'low tech' but effective solutions;
· show novel or innovative solutions;
· explain how difficult issues have been tackled;
· give examples not limited to heavy industry;
· include photographs and diagrams; and
· demonstrate co-operation of the operator.
This chapter describes how six case studies were selected, summarises each and how it
demonstrates Best Available Techniques, and then draws conclusions from all six. A fuller
account of each case study is provided in Appendix F.
5.2 Selection of Case Studies
Case studies were selected based on the following criteria.
· industries and processes that are covered by the IPPC and Waste Management
Regulations;
· preference to industries and processes that are most common in the UK in order to
make the case studies as relevant to as many sites as possible;
· a mix of new facilities and remedial situations; and
· the inclusion of a wide range of noise control techniques and solutions.
5.3 Over view of Case Studies
The case studies provide descriptions of how various noise control techniques were employed
in real situations. In most cases a combination of techniques was used. In order to help
locate an example of a particular technique Table 5.1 gives a summary of the techniques
applied in each case.

Table 5.1 Noise Contr ol Techniques Cover ed in Each Case Study
Case Study Facility Noise Contr ol Techniques Cover ed
1. Foundry Change of process used to re-house noisy plant in acoustically
designed building.
Use of building screening.
2. Maltings Fan attenuators.

Acoustic damping to conveyor systems.
Acoustic enclosures on conveyor drive engines.
3. Paper Products Partial acoustic enclosure.

Factory Helmholtz resonators for elimination of tonal noise.
4. Mineral Fibre Vibrating screens adjusted to reduce low frequency tonal noise.
Factory
5. Combined Heat and Acoustic design of a new power station.
Power Plant Building design, acoustic enclosures, doors, specialist attenuators,
plant planning.
6. Landfill Noise bunding.

A Noise Management System for a Landfill.
5.4 Summar y of Case Study 1
Case Study 1 concerns a foundry run by a company that produces malleable metal casings.
Noise from a cupola furnace system, scrap metal handling operations, and dust and fume
extraction systems was apparent in residential areas some distance from the site. Measured
noise levels were up to 20 dB above background noise in nearby residential areas and low
frequency tonal noise was clearly audible.
For various reasons it was decided to replace the existing cupola melt facility with a new
electric melt operation. During the pre-planning stage a decision was made to address the
noise concerns early in the design. Acoustic consultants were employed to assist in the
design of a new building to contain the electric melt furnaces and the raw materials store,
which included an area for lorries tipping scrap metal, an overhead crane and the furnace
charger.
The noise reduction achieved following the opening of the new furnace system was 12
dB(A). This case study illustrates how the incorporation of noise control within the design of
an updated process on the site was successful in achieving a substantial noise improvement
for the local community.
Case Study 2 concerns a large Maltings operating near a rural community where the Local
Authority were investigating reports of noise nuisance. The main noise sources that were
addressed included tonal fan noise, clatter, screeches and clonks from conveyor systems, and
high frequency hissing sounds from grain chutes.

Fan noise was addressed using in-line absorptive silencers. Noise reductions of about 5
dB(A) were achieved and tonal noise was eliminated. Some fans also required acoustic
lagging to reduce noise breaking out from the fan casings.
Conveyor and elevator casings were fitted with a dense PVC matting to provide acoustic
damping. A grain chute treated in this way showed a noise reduction of over 10 dB(A).
Drive mechanisms forming particular noise sources were boxed in with small local
enclosures manufactured on site from sheet steel and mineral fibre board.
An overall noise reduction of 7 dB(A) was achieved and whilst noise levels remained
significantly above the background noise they were reduced to below recognised absolute
noise standards. This case study is an example of how acoustic treatments can be built by an
operator to fit a particular situation without the need of expensive high-tech equipment.
Case Study 3 concerns an international paper product manufacturer who was experiencing
neighbourhood noise problems, and reduced tonal noise from air-handling material transport
systems and impulsive noise from high pressure blow-off exhausts, using low cost,
innovative technology.
The factory is located in a rural setting but two neighbours had complained of tonal,
intermittent, impulsive noise. The main source of the problem was identified as a series of
fans used to drive air through a system that transports paper pulp around the site. For safety
reasons (fear of fire ignition) standard attenuators could not be used and several other
alternatives were ruled out, including active noise control. A solution was finally found using
Helmholtz resonators. The Helmholtz principle uses a vessel, or side branch, to produce an
air spring which absorbs energy from sound waves in the main duct. Although resonators
cannot operate over wide bandwidths, they control pure tones effectively. As the materials
handling system emitted a tone at 160 Hertz, this option was considered to be a suitable one.
Following research into a suitable design a simple Helmholtz resonator was fabricated in-
house using a 250 mm steel tubing, 1 metre in length. This was attached to the 600 mm duct
by a 75 mm right angled branch, bolted directly to the duct. An adjustable piston was fitted
inside the resonator operated by a screw thread in the closed end.
Eventually four Helmholtz resonators were manufactured on site at a total cost of less than
£1,000. A noise reduction of 10 dB(A) was achieved and the tonal noise was eliminated.
This case study illustrates an innovative low-cost solution that was extremely effective with
no long-term disbenefits.
Case study 4 concerns a mineral fibre manufacturing factory which was reported to be
producing very low frequency noise at unacceptable levels in a nearby house. Several
sources of noise were audible at the site boundary, including noise from various process fans,
pumps, and a low-frequency rumble from the filter plant. Noise also arises from lorry traffic
servicing the plant. However, the source of the low frequency noise was traced to some
recently installed vibrating screens used to process the fibres.

The screens were driven by an eccentric weight which produces an out of balance force and
rotates at low frequency. Detailed 1/3rd octave band analysis in the complainant’s house
showed a tonal peak in the 20 Hertz 1/3rd octave band, but during the survey it could not be
heard above background noise.
The solution was to reduce the speed of rotation of the driving motor from 1450 rpm to 825
rpm. This solution took some time to find, but reduced the offending tone by 10 dB. There
were no long-term implications to the plant and minimal cost in making the required
adjustment.
Case Study 5 describes some of the acoustic design work undertaken for a new Combine
Heat and Power (CHP) plant. The plant was to be located 200m from housing and the Local
Authority set a stringent noise criterion in order to prevent ambient noise levels ‘creeping’
over time. This is a reasonably common practice where there is concern that multiple
developments in the future could each add incrementally to background noise levels and
together produce significant increase in ambient noise levels in the future.
It was decided that the best approach to attenuating the numerous major noise sources was to
house them together in a single acoustically designed building. Turbines and major plant
required substantial acoustic enclosures. Conventional attenuators were used extensively and
specialist attenuators were required in the exhaust stack to cope with very high temperatures.
On commissioning of the plant, noise surveys at the nearest residential dwellings

demonstrated that there had been no increase in ambient noise. In addition, noise from the
CHP building was not detectable at the noise sensitive location previously identified during
the initial noise survey.
This case study illustrates the extent of noise control measures that may be required for a
major plant such as a power station.
Case Study 6 concerns a Landfill operation in the vicinity of two properties at which the
Local Authority had prescribed noise limits. The noise limits were set in accordance with
MPG11 and modelling of possible future noise levels using BS 5228 methodologies
suggested that substantial noise control was required.
Two bunds were constructed of soil removed from the site for cell construction. During their
construction, noise levels at the two receptors occasionally reached levels of 70 dB(A) for
short periods. Noise impacts arising from the construction of bunds in this way is identified
in MPG 11, which also points out the necessity to construct bunds in such cases. As a result,
an agreement was reached with the Planning Authority regarding the exceedance of noise
limiting criteria whilst bund construction took place.
A package of noise management practices was developed including maintenance and

switching off of equipment, limiting plant sound power levels, restricted operating time,
limited use of audible warning alarms, and noise monitoring.

The overall noise reduction achieved was about 10 dB(A) and although levels were still
above background noise levels they met the requirements of the Local Authority.
5.10 Conclusions Fr om Case Studies
The six case studies illustrate a wide range of noise control techniques applied to a variety of
situations. The fuller account of each study given in Appendix F describes the reasons
behind the choice of noise control method in each case and the difficulties that had to be
overcome.
Where possible cost information has been provided. In some cases the costs involved are
surprisingly low, particularly where innovative solutions have been found and the required
hardware has been built on site. Also discussed in Appendix F are some other costs and
benefits associated with the noise control that was undertaken.
The case studies also illustrate how noise limits were set for two new facilities and how Best
Available Techniques were used to reduce noise from existing facilities such that acceptable
outcomes were reached.

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Berglund & Lindvall, 1995. Community Noise, Archives of the Centre for Sensory Research,
Stockholm University, Vol 2. Issue 1.
BSi, 1999. BS8233, 1999 Sound insulation & noise reduction for buildings – Code of
practice
BSi, 1997. BS4142 (1997), Method for rating industrial noise affecting mixed residential &
industrial areas.
BSi, 1997. BS5228, Noise & vibration control on construction & open sites, parts 1,2,3 & 4
BSi, 1992. BS6472: 1992 Guide to Evaluation of human exposure to vibration in buildings (1
Hz to 80 Hz)
BSi, 1990. BS7385, Evaluation & measurement for vibration in buildings Part 1 Guide for
measurement of vibrations & evaluation of their effects on buildings
BSi, 1991. BS7445, Description & measurement of environmental noise Parts 1 to 4
CONCAWE, Den Haag, 1981. The propagation of noise from petroleum & petrochemical
complexes to neighbouring communities
DoE, 1994. Planning Policy Guidance 24 Planning & Noise
DoE, 1993. Minerals Planning Guidance 11, The control of Noise at Surface Mineral
Workings.
EEMUA, 1985. The Engineering Equipment & Material Users Association Guide to the Use
of Noise Procedure Specification EEMUA publication 141 (1985)
Health and Safety Executive, 1995. Sound Solutions, techniques to reduce noise at work
Health and Safety Executive, 1993. Control of Noise in Quarries
The Institute of Gas Engineers, 1990. Recommendations on Environmental Practice

IGE/ER/2: 1990. Communication 1432, Assessment & Control of Environmental Noise
Levels
Irish Environmental Protection Agency, 1995. Integrated Pollution Control Licensing,

Guidance Note for Noise In Relation to Scheduled Activities
ISO, 1993. ISO9613, Acoustics - Attenuation of sound during propagation outdoors.
The Scottish Office Development Department, 1999. Planning Advice Note 56, Planning &
Noise
WHO, 1999. Guidelines on Community Noise

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 2.1 Cause and Effect Relationships for Noise 4
Figure 2.2 A Statistical Sound Level Meter 5
Figure 4.1 Cost Benefits of Noise Control 26
Figure B1.1 Noise Levels in Everyday Situations 37
Figure B2.1 A Time History Plot for Road Traffic Noise 38
Figure B3.1 Noise Spectrum from Cooling Plant 40
Figure B3.2 Sample NR Curves 41
Figure B4.1 Subtracting Noise Levels 42
Figure F1.1 Site Location Plan showing Noise Sources and Noise Sensitive Areas 67
Figure F1.2 Building Layout 70
Figure F1.3 Before and After Noise Survey Results 71
Figure F2.1 Centrifugal Blower 74
Figure F3.1 Helmholtz Resonator Design 79
Figure F4.1 Northern Boundary of the Site Adjacent to the Residential Area 81
Figure F4.2 Site Plan Showing Residential Area to the North West 82
Figure F4.3 The Vibrating Screens Installed at the Factory 84
Figure F5.1 Plant Layout Plan 86
Figure F5.2 Turbine and Boiler Installation 89
Figure F6.1 Overview of Cell Construction and Waste Infill Operations at the Site 93
Figure F6.2 Map of the Site Showing Workings and Nearby Noise Sensitive Receptors 94
Figure F6.3 Cell Construction with Dumper and Bulldozer 96
Figure F6.4 Typical Earth Bund 97
LIST OF TABLES
Table 2.1 Advantages and Disadvantages of Prediction 11
Table 3.1 Noise Control Equipment Applications 20
Table 5.1 Noise Control Techniques Covered in Each Case Study 29
Table B1.1 Approximate Noise Level of Common Sources of Noise 36
Table C.1 Typical Form for the Reporting of a Noise Complaint 44
Table C.2 Noise Measurement Form 45
Table D2.1 Recommended Noise Exposure Categories for New Dwellings
Near Existing Noise Sources. 47
Table D2.2 Interpretation of Noise Level Difference 49
Table D2.3 Guideline Values for Community Noise in Residential Environments 51
Table F1.1 Measured Noise Frequency Spectrum at Site Boundary 68
Table F4.1 Noise Levels Measured Outside the Property of Concern 83
Table F4.2 Variation in Noise Emission at Different Operating Speeds 85
Table F4.3 Comparison of Measured Noise Levels in the Bedroom with the
Screen at Various Speeds 85
Table F5.1 Gas Turbine Air Intake Sound Power Level 89
Table F5.2 Gas Turbine Air Intake Attenuator Insertion Loss 89
Table F5.3 Wall Sound Reduction Indices 91
Table F5.4 Roof Sound Reduction Indices 91
Table F6.1 Identification of Individual Noise Sources 96

Appendix A - Glossar y of Acoustics Ter minology
Sound Power Any source of noise has a characteristic Sound Power, a basic measure of its acoustic
Level and output, but the Sound Pressure Levels it gives rise to depend on many external factors,
Sound Pr essur e which include the distance and orientation of the receiver, the temperature and
Level velocity gradients in the medium, and the environment. Sound power on the other
hand is a fundamental physical property of the source alone, and is therefore an
important absolute parameter which is widely used for rating and comparing sound
sources.
dB (decibel) This is the scale on which sound pressure level is expressed. It is defined as 20 times
the logarithm of the ratio between the root-mean-square pressure of the sound field
and the reference pressure (0.00002 N/m2).
dB(A) This is a measure of the overall noise level of sound across the audible spectrum with
a frequency weighting (i.e. `A' weighting) to compensate for the varying sensitivity of
the human ear to sound at different frequencies.
L Aeq,T This is the equivalent steady sound level in dB(A) containing the same acoustic
energy as the actual fluctuating sound level over the given period, T.
Backgr ound The A-weighted sound pressure level of the residual
Noise Level noise in decibels exceeded for 90% of a given time
L A90,T This is the dB(A) level exceeded 90% of the time, T.
L Amax This is maximum dB(A) level
Residual Noise The noise level in the area without the noise source under investigation.
Facade Noise levels at locations 1m from the facade of a building are described by the term
Facade and are subject to higher noise levels than those in open areas (Free-field
conditions) due to reflection effects.
NR Noise Rating curves, similar to Noise Criteria (NC) curves form a set of noise criteria
given in octave bands which are set with similar frequency weightings as the A-
weighting.
PPV Peak Particle Velocity - vibration measurement parameter that corresponds to the
highest speed in a given direction during a sample period. Often used to assess the
potential for building damage but sometimes used to establish if vibration will be
perceptible.
VDV Vibration Dose Value - vibration measurement parameter that combines the
magnitude of vibration and the time for which it occurs. The measurement is based
on a form of acceleration which is frequency weighted to reflect human sensitivity to
various frequencies (see BS 6472).

Appendix B - Noise Measur ements & Calculations
B1 INTRODUCTION
B1.1 The Scope of this Appendix
Section 2.3 of this report, Measurement of Noise, outlines some of the principles of
measuring and calculating levels of noise in the environment, and Appendix A gives
definitions of some of the terminology used. This Appendix provides further description of
how to carry out noise measurements and calculations, giving examples and formulas
applicable to the most commonly encountered situations. BS 4142 and BS8233 give further
guidance.
B1.2 The Decibel Scale of Sound
Before going into the detail of noise measurement it is useful to have a feel for the scale on
which all measurements are made.
Noise levels are measured using the decibel scale. This is not an additive system of units (as,
for example, metres or kilograms are) but a proportional system (a logarithmic progression).
Measurements in dB(A) broadly agree with people’s assessment of loudness. A change of 1
dB(A) is only perceptible under controlled conditions. A change of 3 dB(A) is the minimum
perceptible under normal conditions, and a change of 10 dB(A) corresponds roughly to
halving or doubling the loudness of a sound.
Noise levels of some common sounds are shown in Table B1.1.
Table B1.1 Appr oximate Noise Level of Common Sour ces of Noise
Noise Level - dB Noise Sour ce
80 Heavy road traffic at 10m
70 Car at 60 km/h at 7m or loud radio indoors
60 Busy general office or restaurant and normal
conversation at 1 m
50 Quiet conversational speech at 1m
40 Whispered conversation at 2m
30 to 35 Quiet bedroom or living room
Notice that in Table B1.1 the distance from the source to the receiver is given in cases where
the source may be mobile. This is because as sound propagates away from a source its
intensity decays rapidly as the acoustic energy is spread more and more thinly. For a small
(point) source, the rate of decay is about 6 dB for each doubling of distance (see Section B4.4
below). So it is important to note the measurement distance in any case where the source
may move or where the receiver point is not clearly defined.
The noise levels of some everyday situations are shown in Figure B1.1. These are for typical
source to receiver separation distances, and hence the precise level in any particular case will
vary around the levels indicated.

Figur e B1.1 Noise Levels in Ever yday Situations
B2 QUANTIFYING A VARYING SOUND LEVEL

The sound levels we hear are rarely constant. This is because the sound pressure arriving at
our ears is usually the result of numerous different sources of noise, each of which may be
varying in strength from one second to the next. Exceptions tend to be when one particularly
constant source is very loud compared to the rest (eg close to a extract fan in a factory wall)
or when all noise sources are at large distances from the receiver (eg in the bedroom of a
remote house at night). So, to quantify a noise level we tend to measure it over a period of
several minutes by taking numerous very short samples (typically half a second long) and we
report a statistical analysis of sampled levels.
The simplest statistical metrics we can report include the level of the highest noise sample
(LMax, the maximum level), the level of the lowest sample (LMin, the minimum level), and the
median (L50). These are commonly used, particularly LMax, as it a measure of the most
obtrusive facet of the noise, even though it may only occur for a split second. LMin is rarely
used, but can be a powerful way of measuring a constant noise in amongst other intermittent
noises.
L50, the median level, or 50th percentile, is hardly ever used. Instead, another form of
'average' level is more common, Leq, the equivalent level. Leq is indeed an average of all the
sampled levels, but to take account of the logarithmic nature of the decibel scale of sound, it
is not the arithmetic mean, it is the logarithmic mean.
The L90 level will be a little above the LMin, and has been adopted as a good indicator of the
'background' noise level. Whilst it is not the absolute lowest level measured in any of the
short samples, it gives a clear indication of the underlying noise level, or the level that is
almost always there in between intermittent noisy events.
L10, the tenth percentile, or the level which 10% of the samples exceed, has been shown to
give a good indication of people's subjective response to road traffic noise, and in this
country is used in assessments of road traffic noise impact. This is presumably because it is
the general peakiness of road traffic noise that people notice, but not the absolute peaks
(LMax) that occur only occasionally. It is relevant here, to reiterate the importance of always

noting the measurement duration - an LMax measured in a two minute sample of road traffic
may be lower than an LMax measured over a one hour period, depending on the frequency of
vehicle pass-bys. Indeed, for low traffic flows, L10 may be different too. The Calculation of
Road Traffic Noise gives the following equation for determining the shortest measurement
period that will give reliable L10 levels for a given traffic flow.
· Minimum period = (4000/hourly flow) + (120/sampling rate).
Usually a measurement period of 15 minutes is adequate to obtain repeatable results. If the

objective of the measurement is to measure the level of a noise source underlying road traffic
at low flows (or some other intermittent noise event), a useful technique is to 'pause' the
sound level meter during noisy events. Clearly, only part of the noise climate is being
quantified when using this technique.
Road traffic noise is by far the most common source of environmental noise. It varies
through the time of day and the day of the week as the traffic flow varies. Other factors
effect traffic noise level, but in general there is a familiar pattern of noise levels through the
day. Figure B2.1 gives a plot of noise level against time for a period of one week at a
location about 10m from a busy main road within a city.
100
95
90
85
80
75
SPL dB(A)
70
65
60
55
50
45
40 Saturday
Sunday
35
30
00:00 12:00 00:00 12:00 00:00 12:00 00:00 12:00 00:0012:00 00:00 12:00 00:0012:00 00:00
26-Aug 27-Aug 28-Aug 29-Aug 30-Aug 31-Aug 01-Sep
Date /Time
LAeq LA90 LA10 LAMax
Figur e B2.1 A Time Histor y Plot for Road Tr affic Noise

Figure B2.1 gives the values of LA10, LAeq, LA90, and LAmax for each hour of the day and night.
The following typical observations can be made:
· On weekdays the morning and evening peak rush hours are visible.
· At night noise levels drop by about 10 dB.
· LAmax levels vary over a wide range from hour to hour.
· Saturdays and Sundays are generally quieter during the day, but not at night.
Whilst these are typical observations, they are by no means predictable and the pattern of
noise levels will depend on local conditions. This figure does however illustrate the
relationship between the different noise metrics, and also some of the factors to be considered
when carrying out a noise measurement which will include road traffic noise.
So, there is a range of noise metrics to choose from to meet the needs of any particular
measurement situation. Criteria used to assess noise impact have historically used various
metrics, but in recent years there has been a move towards using LAeq, T wherever possible.
This trend is continuing with the European Commission's work on future European noise
policy.
B3 FREQUENCY ANALYSIS
Introduction
Just as a given noise is characterised by the way in which it varies over time, it will also be
made up of a wide range of different frequencies of noise. The spread of noise energy across
the audible frequency 'spectrum' (about 20Hz to 20,000 Hz) is one factor that helps to make it
identifiable to the human ear.
Tonal Noise
Often the highest levels of sound energy will be spread over a wide band of frequencies
('broad-band' noise) and the frequency spectrum will follow a smooth curve. Sometimes,
however, a noise source will emit noise that is concentrated in a 'narrow band' of the
spectrum and contains a high proportion of energy at a single frequency (a 'pure tone').
Examples of sources that can give rise to tonal noise include fans, compressors, motors, and
transforms. Most have moving parts that rotate or vibrate at a given, audible frequency.
For example, a fan with four blades, rotating at 600 revolutions per minute (10 times per
second) has a fan blade passing frequency of 40 Hz. Whilst noise from fans is commonly the
result of complex aerodynamic effects, this fan could potentially produce tonal noise at 40
Hz. Mains electrical power is a common source of tonal noise, for example in transformers.
The 'fundamental' frequency (ie the frequency of the driving force that generates the noise)
for main electricity is 50 Hz. Other 'harmonics' may also be produced, at multiples of 50 Hz,
(100 Hz, 200 Hz etc) as a result of further modes of vibration being set up in structures or in
the air.
Tonal noise is generally more noticeable and more annoying than non-tonal noise of the same
level and can be penalised in assessments of noise impact, usually by 5 dB. Whilst tonality
can be judged subjectively, it will often be useful to measure it. This is achieved through
'frequency analysis'. The most common technique is 'third octave band analysis' whereby the

sound level meter divides the sound signal into band-widths of 1/3rd of an octave. Each band
is described by its centre frequency. Conventionally up to 10 octaves are covered, centred on
32, 63, 125, 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 4000, 8000 and 16000 Hz. Often the first and last are not
used. Third octaves split each octave into three, thus they centred at 32, 40, 50, 63 Hz etc.
Figure B3.1 gives an example of a 1/3rd octave band spectrum from a cooling plant inside a
plant room.
95
90
85
80
75
dB
70
65
60
55
50
10 100 1000 10000
1/3 rd Octave Band Centre Frequency
Figur e B3.1 Noise Spectr um fr om Cooling Plant
A distinct peak can be seen at 50 Hz which would be judged as tonal. BS 7445 gives
guidance on tonality, and suggests that where a single 1/3rd octave band level is at least 5 dB
higher than the level in both of the two adjacent bands, then tonal character may be present.
The broader peak around 700 Hz would not be judged as tonal.
Conditions or permit levels should require that tonal noise or noise with any other clear
character (see BS 4142) is avoided.
Low Frequency Noise
The A-weighting frequency network applies the highest attenuation to low frequencies (eg 26
dB at 63 Hz) and when measuring noise with a high content of low frequency energy A-
weighting can give non-representative results. There is a recent trend to use ‘linear’ noise
levels (ie with no frequency weighting at all) when quantifying a low frequency noise source.
This is a valid technique but would generally require specialist advice.

Noise Rating (NR) Curves
Noise Rating (NR) and Noise Criterion (NC) curves were developed for setting noise limits
in internal rooms. The curves specify limiting sound pressure levels in each separate octave
band, but unlike A-weighting the levels in different bands are not summed in any way.
Instead the NR level is taken as the highest NR level in any separate octave. Figure B3.2
shows NR 35, 40, 45, and 50 dB curves and a spectrum from a noise source. This source has
its highest NR level of 45 dB in the 1000 Hz octave band and so is rated as NR 45.
80
70
60
50
dB
NR5
40
NR4
0
5
NR4
30
0
NR3
5
20
10 100 1000 10000
Octave Band Centre Frequency (Hz)
Figur e B3.2 Sample NR Cur ves
NR curves are rarely used for environmental noise but have in the past been considered as a
way of attempting to apply a tighter limit than a dB(A) so as to provide extra assurance that
tonality will not be audible. However, even if an NR limit is set below the A-weighted
background noise level it is still possible that a distinct tone in the new noise source will be
discernible. It is more usual to set noise limits in dB(A) and to specify that the noise should
have no discernible tonal character.
B4 CALCULATING NOISE LEVELS
B4.1 Intr oduction
The best way to establish the noise level in a particular place is to go there and measure it.
Similarly, if a particular source of noise is of concern, it is best if there are no other
significant noise sources to be heard when measuring it. Of course, in reality these ideal
conditions are not always possible. In these cases it may be necessary to adjust a measured
level by calculation to determine the level that is actually of interest. Some of the
calculations that can be used are explained below.

B4.2 Adding and Subtr acting Noise Levels
In some situations it is possible to deduce the noise level you are interested in by adding of
subtracting noise level from two or more measurements. For, example, a good way to
measure the noise level from a piece of building serviced plant is to measure the total noise
level at the receiver first with the plant running, and then with it switched off. The noise
level of the plant is then calculated by subtracting the second level from the first. This
subtraction must be done logarithmically, and can be looked up on Figure B4.1 below.
Difference Between Measured Noise
3.0
2.5
2.0
Levels (dB)
1.5
1.0
0.5
0.0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Difference Between Separate
Noise Levels dB
Figur e B4.1 Subtr acting Noise Levels
For example, if the difference between the second and the first measured levels is 1.5 dB then
the plant noise must be at a level 4.0 dB lower than the first measurement.
This chart can be used similarly to add noise levels logarithmically. For example if the
difference between two separate noise levels is zero, then the additive effect is plus 3 dB.
The effect of multiple sources, each of equal level is calculated as

+10 Log (number of sources).
B4.3 Façade Effects
When sound is incident on a building (or any acoustically 'hard' surface) the majority of it is
reflected back off the façade. Thus a measurement made close to the façade will record the
summation of the noise incident on the façade and the noise reflected away from the façade.
The reflected noise is rather like a second source of the same magnitude, and the effect is to
add approximately 3 dB to the level of the incident sound. Measurements should be made
either at a façade location, approximately 1m from the façade, or in a 'free-field' location, at
least 4m away from any reflective surface (apart from the ground). If the receiver is the
occupant of a building it is better to measure at the façade, since façade effects can be less
than 3 dB, for example if the noise is not incident perpendicular to the building.

B4.4 Distance Attenuation
Where it is not possible to measure at the receiver it may be necessary to calculate the level at
the receiver from the level measured somewhere else. In general if a parallel location can be
used that is the same distance from the source, and is next to the receiver (so it has the same
screening effects etc), then no correction will be needed. If measurements are made on the
site boundary it may be necessary to correct for the additional distance to the receiver. This
is usually straight-forward.
The general relationships between noise level and distance from source for a point and line
source are as follows.
For a point source:

Level at distance B = Level at distance A – (20 x Log (distance B / distance A)).
For a line source:

Level at distance B = Level at distance A – (10 x Log (distance B / distance A)).
When measuring at the site boundary a relatively small piece of plant will general be a point
source. A conveyor or road may be a line source if there is an unobstructed field of view of it
from the measurement point.
So, for example, if a measurement of noise from a chiller on top if a building gives 60 dB at
the site boundary which is at a distance of 100 m, and the receiver is a further 50 m away,
then the calculated level at the receiver is 60 - 20log(150/100)= 56.5 dB.
These simple relationships do not follow where there is significant levels of acoustic
screening or acoustically 'soft' ground. BS 5228, Part 1 gives a simple method of calculating
these effects. Soft ground effects can produce additional attenuation of up to about 3 dB(A)
over distances of 100m and up to about 9 dB(A) over 1000m. ISO 9613 gives a more
detailed method that allows for weather conditions.
The more complex the calculation, the lower the certainty in the predicted level, so complex
interpolations of measured levels should be avoided wherever possible.

Appendix C - Noise Complaint and Noise Measur ement For ms
AppC
Table C.1 Typical For m for the Repor ting of a Noise Complaint
Sheet No
Noise Complaint Report F orm
Date Site Grid Reference
Name and address of complainant
Tel no. of complainant

Time and date of complaint
Date, time and duration of offending noise
Weather conditions (ie, dry, rain, fog, snow)
Wind strength and direction (ie, light, steady, strong, gusting)
Complainant's description of noise (ie, hiss, hum, rumble, continuous, intermittent)
Has complainant any other comments about offending noise?
Any other previous known complaints relating to installation (all aspects not just noise)
Any other relevant information
Type of installation
Plant and equipment installed
Items working at time offending noise occurred
Operating condition at time offending noise occurred

(eg Flow rate, pressure at inlet and pressure at outlet)
Form completed by Signed

Table C.2 Noise Measur ement For m
Sheet No. of Project No. and Name: Date: / /
Location Time Weather LAeq LA90 LA50 LA10 LAMax Comment
Filters: Frequency Weighting: Time Weighting: Signature:

OFF/ 1/1/1/3 Lin/A PK/I/S/F

Appendix D - Summar y of Relevant Guidance Documents on the
Assessment of Noise and Vibr ation
D1 INTRODUCTION
This Appendix summarises and comments on key guidance documents that can be used to
assess noise impacts from new and existing facilities.
The key features of each guidance document and their relevance to IPPC and waste
management licensing are highlighted in Section 2. This Appendix gives a fuller description
of each in order to offer further guidance of their applicability. However, if in doubt the
reader should refer to the full document. A bibliography of all the guidance relevant to this
report is given prior to the Appendices.
There is a need to consider the relevant assessment approach. In the UK, some guidance (eg
BS 4142(17)) compares background levels with the noise from a plant. Absolute levels can
also be considered, for example to assess the effect on sleep which may be triggered at an
absolute level. Even when a noise limit is set as an absolute level, one may need to consider
the existing ambient levels if they are already close to the limit that is to be set. Across
Europe the more common approach is generally to use absolute levels, and European noise
policy is likely to follow this approach.
In all cases, it will be important that the local conditions are taken into account. Consultation
with the Local Authority will be helpful when determining the approach to be adopted.
The Institute of Acoustics and Institute of Environmental Assessment working group on noise
assessment is also likely to make some important recommendations in their guidance on
noise assessment which is currently being developed. It has not been published at the time of
writing but a description of the likely scope has been discussed in Section 2.
D2 RELEVANT NOISE GUIDELINES

D2.1 Planning Policy Guidance PPG24
D2.1.1 Intr oduction
PPG24 (18) establishes Noise Exposure Categories which are applicable when planning new
residential developments affected by transport noise or by mixed noise sources in which
industrial noise does not dominate. In the case of proposed noise-producing development
affecting existing noise-sensitive pr emises, PPG24 advises that Br itish Standar d BS 4142
can be used, within its own ter ms of r efer ence, to pr edict the likelihood of complaints.
As such PPG24 is not as r elevant as BS 4142 in most cases that will be encounter ed in
the per mitting process under the IPPC and waste management licensing regime.
PPG24 also introduces the concept of Noise Exposure Categories (NECs). These categories
are intended to be used to provide guidance on the levels of acceptable noise for new housing
(17) British Standard BS 4142 (1997) Method for rating industrial noise affecting mixed residential and industrial areas.
(18) Planning Policy Guidance 24 Planning and Noise, 1994, DoE

developments that should be taken into account when determining planning permission
conditions relating to noise insulation. The NECs are not intended for use in reverse, ie for
assessing noise impacts of new noise sources on existing housing. However, the derivations
of these are explained and this background research is often used to develop absolute
criterion for noise levels.
D2.1.2 Noise Exposur e Categor ies
PPG24 does not offer a single set of criteria, but introducing the concept of Noise Exposure
Categories (NECs) that provide flexibility to take account of local conditions and the needs of
the local community and economy. There are four NECs:
A. Noise need not be considered as a determining factor in granting planning permission,

although the noise level at the high end of the category should not be considered as
desirable.
B. Noise should be taken into account when determining planning applications and, where
appropriate, condition imposed to ensure an adequate level of protection against noise.
C. Planning permission should not normally be granted. Where it is considered that

permission should be given, for example because there are no alternative quieter sites
available, conditions should be imposed to ensure a commensurate level of protection
against noise.
D. Planning permission should generally be refused.
Table D2.1 reproduces the table in PPG 24 that gives the noise levels for each NEC for each
source of noise.
Table D2.1 Recommended Noise Exposur e Categor ies for New Dwellings Near
Existing Noise Sour ces.
Noise levels (a) Cor r esponding to the Noise Exposur e Categor ies for
New Dwellings L Aeq,T dB
Noise exposur e categor y
Noise source A B C D
Road traffic
07.00 - 23.00 <55 55 - 63 63 - 72 >72
23.00 - 07.00(b) <45 45 - 57 57 - 66 >66
rail traffic
07.00 - 23.00 <55 55 - 66 66 - 74 >74
(b)
23.00 - 07.00 <45 45 - 59 59 - 66 >66
air traffic(c)
07.00 - 23.00 <57 57 - 66 66 - 72 >72
23.00 - 07.00(b) <48 48 - 57 57 - 66 >66
Mixed sources(d)
07.00 - 23.00 <55 55 - 63 63 - 72 >72
23.00 - 07.00(b) <45 45 - 57 57 - 66 >66

D2.1.3 Der ivation of Noise Exposur e Categor ies
The type of noise source covered by PPG24 that is most relevant to the IPPC and the waste
management licensing regime is 'mixed sources', ie a combination of road, rail, air an
industrial noise. PPG24 explains how the NEC levels for noise from mixed sources are set at
the lowest numerical values of the single source limits, reproduced in Table D2.1 above.
Annex 2 of PPG24 offers explanations of the how the NEC levels are set for each source of
noise. It explains how for road and rail noise there is no recent major research from which to
obtain the scale of noise effects. For aircraft noise several major studies have been
undertaken by the Department of Operational Research and Analysis (DORA) of National
Air Traffic Services. However, for all types of noise source a common rationale separates the
NECs, and this provides a useful indication of the magnitude of the noise impact that can be
expected in each category.
Boundary of NEC A/B : Taken as the onset of noise impacts taken from World Health
Organisation research (see Section D2.3 below).
Boundary of NEC B/C : Based on the levels that trigger noise insulation for transportation
noise. Hence indicative of the threshold at which the severity of noise impacts become very
undesirable.
Boundary of NEC C/D : Taken as the level above which noise insulation becomes insufficient
to mitigate noise impacts. Hence indicative of the level at which noise impacts become very
severe.
The day/night levels of LAeq, period 55/45 dB used as the boundary of NEC A and B have been
widely adopted as the levels which represent the onset of community noise effects. Under
developing EU noise policy, for example, they are the long-term target noise levels for
Member States to aim for. Whilst levels lower than this are frequently enjoyed in more rural
locations, it can be argued that even if noise levels in such areas are increased, provided they
remain below these levels a good standard of noise climate will be maintained. However,
there are initiatives to preserve quiet. Evolving European noise policy is recognising the
value of quiet or tranquil areas and the need to maintain them. Also the Council for the
Protection of Rural England (CPRE) has defined tranquil areas and produced maps of them.
D2.2 Br itish Standar d BS 4142
Planning Policy Guidance PPG24 suggests that the approach in BS 4142 should form the
basis of the operational noise assessment. BS 4142 describes a method for determining
industrial and background noise levels outside residential properties and for assessing
whether the industrial noise is likely to give rise to complaints from the occupants.
The BS 4142 assessment methodology involves the following procedure:
· background (LA90) noise levels (BNL) in the absence of the new noise source are measured
at noise-sensitive receptors;

· noise levels due to the facility are then quantified, ie predicted in the case of proposed
developments, for the receptor location as an LAeq (using the procedures set out in the
standard);
· noise levels are corrected, if appropriate, for duration and character, with the corrected
noise levels being termed the rating levels and expressed in LAeq; and
· rating levels are then compared with the BNLs for the area.
The correction for tonal, impulsive or any distinctive character in the noise source is +5dB.
The interpretation of the difference between the rating level and the BNL is shown in Table
D2.2.
Table D2.2 Inter pr etation of Noise Level Differ ence

Differ ence in noise level (dB) Significance
Around +10 Complaints are likely
Around +5 Marginal
<+5 Decreasing likelihood of complaint

with decreasing difference in levels
-10 Positive indication that complaints are

unlikely
BS 4142 requires that daytime assessments are based on the highest LAeq from the noise
source over a period of 1 hour, while at night-time an assessment period of 5 minutes is
specified.
Table D2.2 is useful in determining the likelihood of complaints in a given situation, but if it
is to be used to determine an acceptable noise permit level then great care is needed. This
British Standard is commonly misused in this way. When used for assessing acceptable noise
limits several factors that are unique to the local situation must be considered, including:
· the absolute levels of ambient noise in the area;

· the types and characteristics of noise present;
· the planning setting with regards to other future noise sources; and
· local opinion on the noise environment.
Taken on face value Table D2.2 could be interpreted to indicate that if a new noise source is
at a level between 10 dB below and 5 dB above the existing background noise level then
complaints are not likely and hence such a level is 'acceptable'. In this sense BS4142 offers
limited guidance because this range of levels is large. It is the local conditions that will help
determine where in this range 'acceptability' lies. The following examples illustrate some
situations where certain interpretations of BS 4142 could be misleading.

Where background noise levels are very low, below LA90 30 dB, BS 4142 warns that the
guidance may not apply. Applying a -10 dB limit of below LAeq, night 20 dB to ensure a
positive indication that complaints are unlikely would therefore be inappropriate.
A new type of noise may be clearly more discernible above a very different type of
background noise, for example distant traffic that tends to form a steady broadband noise. In
such cases a limit of background +5 dB for a new source may not be appropriate.
Adopting the +5 dB 'marginal' case as acceptable can be inappropriate if there is a likelihood

of other future developments adding further to ambient noise levels in the future. This is the
so-called 'creeping background' concern that sometimes arises around developing industrial
areas. This concern can be valid in some cases, but in others it my not be so serious, for
example if road traffic noise is the main source of noise actually experienced by the receiver
locations, and changes in industrial noise will have little effect on total noise levels at the
receivers. In some cases theoretical calculations of additive noise effects from future
developments can be misleading. Noise levels from different sources may not add according
to simple theory (see Appendix B). For example if they have different frequency components,
different temporal patterns, different screening effects, or arrive at a property from different
directions and so effect different facades or will not peak under any one set of meteorological
conditions.
If little future development is expected adopting a cautious approach of setting permit level at
-10 dB may be unnecessary, depending on other local factors, particularly if ambient nose
levels are low in absolute terms.
Finally, in situations where there is a history of noise disturbance from whatever source, the
local community may have become 'sensitised' to noise impacts. In such cases the 'average'
dose-response relationships which form the basis of noise standards may not hold and there
may be more complaints. In such cases limits at the lower end of the BS4142 range may be
more appropriate, depending on other local factors.
Of course all these local factors interrelate, and for this reason it is not possible to offer
prescriptive guidance on how to apply BS 4142. Indeed there is much criticism of the way
the standard is applied and this may lead to a revision after 2002. In the meantime BS 4142
must be used with care when setting noise permit levels.
D2.3 Wor ld Health Or ganisation
In 1980 the World Health Organisation (WHO) proposed environmental health criteria for
community noise (19). In 1995 Stockholm University and Karolinska Institute published the
essentials of WHO’s revised guidelines (20) and in December 1999 the latest guidance was
published as the WHO Guidelines for Community Noise (21). The guidance quotes over 300
bibliographical references and forms an authoritative summary of scientific knowledge on the
health impacts of community noise. It is important to note the declared scope of WHO’s
efforts is to consolidate actual scientific knowledge on health impacts rather than to set
(19) Environmental Health Criteria - 12 Noise, WHO, 1980

(20) Community Noise, Archives of the Centre for Sensory Research, Stockholm University, Vol 2. Issue 1. Berglund & Lindvall, 1995.
(21) Guidelines for Community Noise , WHO, 1999.

standards that might be applicable to given situations. The document is arranged in five main
chapters, the contents of which are discussed below.
Chapter 1 introduces the guidelines. It includes information on current levels of noise

exposure, and notes that in the European Union about 40% of the population is exposed to
road traffic noise with an equivalent noise level exceeding 55dB(A) during the day.
Chapter 2 discusses noise sources and measurement techniques.
Chapter 3 describes the adverse health effects of noise, such as hearing impairment, sleep
disturbance, physiological functions, social and behavioural effects, and vulnerable groups.
Chapter 4 gives guideline noise values for health effects and specific environments. Those of
most relevance to this R&D report will generally be those that relate to dwellings and
residential areas, and are summarised in Table D2.3. Guidelines for other areas are also
given.
Table D2.3 Guideline Values for Community Noise in Residential Envir onments
Specific Cr itical health effect(s) L Aeq Time base L Amax
envir onment [dB(A)] [hour s] fast
[dB]
Outdoor living area Serious annoyance, daytime and evening 55 16 -
Moderate annoyance, daytime and evening 50 16 -
Dwelling, indoors Speech intelligibility & moderate 35 16

annoyance, daytime & evening
Inside bedrooms Sleep disturbance, night-time 30 8 45
Outside bedrooms Sleep disturbance, window open (outdoor values) 45 8 60
The guidance suggests that for continuous noise an internal LAeq below 30 dB is required if
negative effects on sleep are to be avoided, and where the background noise is low levels
above LAMax 45 dB should be limited. Information on the complex nature of sleep
disturbance due to noise is given as background to these values and others.
The guideline values given in this chapter can be converted to external noise levels, and
applied to industrial noise, say as limits at the nearest receptor, thus fulfilling the WHO’s
objective of avoiding health effects, but whether or not such limits would be appropriate and
reasonable, and whether they would ensure BAT is employed to control noise emissions from
a given site, will depend on the many local factors that should also be carefully considered in
setting a permit level.
Chapter 5 offers general guidance on noise management, but is necessarily concerned with
the general situation rather than specifically with noise permitting for new or extended
industrial facilities.

Planning Policy Guidance PPG24 suggests that BS 8233(22) should be used if it is necessary
to consider noise levels within buildings. This may be the case if the affected buildings are
non-residential or if external areas are not of concern and for some reason acoustic insulation
packages are already installed at a building.
BS 8233 gives recommendations for the control of noise in and around buildings, and
suggests appropriate criteria and limits for different situations. The standard makes it clear
that these cr iter ia and limits ar e pr imar ily intended to guide the design of new or
r efur bished buildings, r ather than to assess the effects of changes in exter nal noise level.
The criteria and limits given are therefore of limited relevance to IPPC or waste management
licensing situations. However, the standard contains other general information on noise
control and noise calculations that may be useful, including:
· Sound insulation data for various building elements.
· General noise calculation methods, such as adding and subtracting noise levels and
calculating noise insulation of composite building facades.
· A-weighting corrections and Noise Rating (NR) curves.
· Discussion on the Mass Law and special noise insulation problems that may require
expert advice.
D2.5 Miner als Planning Guidance MPG11
Minerals Planning Guidance MPG11 (23) describes the government’s policy on noise from
Surface Mineral Workings. MPG11 notes that waste disposal sites share many common
features with surface mineral working, and much of the advice contained in these guidelines
will be appropriate to noise control of such operations. As such, MPG11 will be useful for
assessing the noise from landfill operations that are covered by IPPC. MPG11 recommends
the use of BS 5228 to predict noise levels.
This planning guidance document adopts the approach of a single absolute noise limit. The
basic criterion it recommends for daytime operations is a nominal noise limit of 55 dB LAeq,1
hour (free-field) at noise sensitive properties used as dwellings. In this case, 1 hour means any
of the one-hour periods during the defined working day.
However, it is recognised that in the case of quieter rural areas, where a 55 dB LAeq,1 hour
(free-field) limit would exceed the existing background level by more than 10 dB(A), a lower
limit may be appropriate. It is recommended that a limit below 45 dB LAeq,1 hour (free-field) is
not normally used since 45 dB LAeq,1 hour (free-field) should prove tolerable to most people in
rural areas.
MPG11 also states that it will often be necessary to raise the noise limits to allow temporary
but exceptionally noisy phases in the mineral extraction operation which cannot meet the
(22) BS 8233: 1999 Sound insulation and noise reduction for buildings – Code of practice, BSi, 1987
(23) The control of Noise at Surface Mineral Workings, DoE, 1993.

limits set for routine operations. It is suggested that any higher noise limit as well as the
duration of any such temporary phases is agreed between the Mineral Planning Authority
(MPA) and the mineral operators taking account of local circumstances.
The guidance suggests that noise limits of 70 dB LAeq,1 hour (free-field) for temporary
operations may be appropriate.
British Standard 5228 (24) Noise and vibration control on construction and open sites has
four parts:
· Part 1. Code of practice for basic information and procedures for noise and vibration
control (1997).
· Part 2. Guide to noise and vibration control legislation for construction and demolition
including road construction and maintenance (1997).
· Part 3. Code of practice applicable to surface coal extraction by opencast methods (1997).
· Part 4. Code of Practice for noise and vibration control applicable to piling operations
(1992).
The standard forms a series of codes of practice for construction sites. However sections of
Part 1 provide useful guidance for any situation where noise is generated by plant outdoors,
for example on landfill sites. The bulk of Part 1 provides a method of calculating noise from
construction plant, including:
· tables of source noise levels;

· a methods for summing up contributions from intermittently operating plant;
· a procedure for calculating noise propagation, over ‘soft’ or ‘hard’ ground;
· a method for calculating noise screening effects; and
· a way of predicting noise from mobile plant, such as those on haul roads;
Part 1 also provides guidance on the following subjects for construction sites that may also be
useful in other outdoor situations;
· legislative background;
· community relations;
· training;
· noise and vibration neighbourhood nuisance;
· project supervision; and
· control of noise and vibration.
On the last subject, the standard gives examples of the noise control achievable through
various methods (such as exhaust silencers and enclosures) and also gives diagrams
(24) BS5228, Noise and vibration control on construction and open sites, parts 1,2,3 and 4: BSi, 1997.

illustrating simple designs of noise enclosures and barriers that can be built and used on
construction sites.
In summary, BS 5228 provides guidance that may be useful when predicting noise and
considering noise control techniques for plant operating outdoors, in particular for landfills
and waste transfer stations.
D2.7 The Engineer ing Equipment and Mater ial User s Association Guide to the Use of
Noise Pr ocedur e Specification EEMUA publication 141 (1985)
The EEMUA method describes measurement of noise from plants, setting noise limits, and
using prediction to investigate the effect of implementing noise control. A method for
establishing frequency band noise limits is also proposed to limit the potential for tonal
elements in the noise that may be more distinctive than a broad-band noise. An absolute low
frequency limit is proposed in the 31.5 Hz band to enable low frequency combustion sources
(such as gas turbines and boilers) to be controlled.
D3 VIBRATION CRITERIA
BS 5228 Part 4 (25) is strictly applicable to control of vibration from piling operations and
not operational facilities. However, it describes parameters to be measured during a vibration
assessment at various facilities and states that the human threshold of perceptibility range
from 0.15 to 0.3 mm/s (ppv) at frequencies between 8 to 80 Hz.
D3.2 Br itish Standar d BS 6472.
BS6472 (26) is a method of assessing vibration effects on human beings. Criteria are
included that indicate likely levels of annoyance from vibration exposure. ppv curves are
shown that indicate the point at which low probability of complaints will be expected. The
lowest value in any of the assessment curves, at any frequency, is 1.41 x 10-4 m/s. Significant
human vibration issues should not be expected at this level. This level is slightly lower than
the threshold of perceptibility described in BS 5228.
Vibration disturbance assessments are complex and they require the use of specialised
equipment (particularly to measure VDV). A screening assessment could be carried out to
establish if there is a potential for a vibration problem. If the following two conditions are
met, it may be appropriate to commission a detailed survey:
· the vibration is perceptible at the sensitive off-site areas; and

· a ppv vibration measurement shows that the levels are higher than 1.41 x 10-4 m/s.
(25) Noise control on construction and open sites: part 4. Code of practice for noise and vibration control applicable to piling operations, BSi,
1992.
(26) Guide to Evaluation of human exposure to vibration in buildings (1 Hz to 80 Hz), BSi, 1992.

Appendix E - Noise Contr ol Equipment Infor mation Sheets
Sheet 1 Acoustic Enclosur es
Picture used with the permission of Industrial Acoustics Ltd
Acoustic enclosures form a complete box around a piece of equipment and include acoustics
doors, windows and attenuated ventilation or cooling systems.
Description Application
Where equipment can operate in Generators, compressors, pumps, process equipment

a confined space it can be requiring substantial attenuation but minimal access
completely enclosed by high and maintenance.
performance metal acoustic
panels. Doors, windows and Performance
other openings require special
attention and proprietary 20-30 dB(A) limited mainly by silencing of openings
enclosures ensure optimal design. and doors.
Openings to provide adequate air
flow for cooling are usually the Cost
acoustically weak points and high
performance attenuators are Enclosures with surface areas of 30 m2, installed with
required. attenuators:
Vibration isolation is usually 20 dB - £5,000

required between the equipment 30 dB - £7,000
and the floor.

Sheet 2 Acoustic Louvr es
Acoustic Louvres are similar to weather louvres but provide additional attenuation of noise
that passes through them.
Acoustic Louvres can be used to Chillers, compressors, pumps, heat pumps, other
replace weather louvres in external equipment requiring air flow.
building openings to reduce
noise transfer to outside. Performance
Alternatively free-standing
acoustic louvres can be placed Low frequency performance in limited. The noise
around external equipment that path over the top of a louvre screen will usually limit
requires air flow for cooling. performance to up to about 10 dB(A). Back to back
Air is allowed to flow between acoustic louvres (ie two louvres fixed together) can
the louvre blades, but noise is increase performance to about 15 dB(A).
attenuated by absorptive
material within each blade. Cost
Acoustic louvres can produce Single acoustic louvres - £300 / m2

high pressure drops to the air Back to back louvres - £400 / m2
flowing through them which
may create heat load problems to
the plant.

Sheet 3 Noise Bar r ier s
Picture used with the permission of Industrial Acoustics Ltd
Acoustic Barriers are solid structures located close to equipment to provide acoustic
screening between source and receiver.
Noise barriers can be made from Most equipment whose noise sources are close to the
acoustic panels, but usually ground or a flat roof.
brick/ block walls or solid
wooden fences are adequate Performance
unless reverberation behind the
barrier is a concern. Barriers Performance increases with the ‘path difference’; the
require a minimum density so difference between the direct path (through the barrier)
that noise passing through the and diffracted noise path over the top edge of the
barrier is attenuated to below barrier. A path difference of zero (ie when the line of
that passing over the top. sight from noise source to the receiver is just broken)
Barriers are most effective when implies 5 dB(A) attenuation. In practice a performance
located close to the noise source of greater than about 15 dB(A) requires very large
and can be painted or landscaped barriers and is rarely practicable.
to minimise visual impact.
Transparent materials have also Cost
been used. Earth bunds can be
effective barriers, trees cannot. Noise barrier fences can cost as little as £150 per linear
Barriers must be solid without meter but can be considerably more expensive if they
any holes or openings. are tall or made from superior materials.

Sheet 4 Acoustic Panelling
There are many types of acoustic panel, but most are designed to absorb sound incident from
one side.
Acoustic panels are generally Acoustic Panels are the building blocks of
between 40 and 200 mm thick and many acoustic products. Used alone they can
are made from a sandwich of coated replace conventional walls or partitions, or used
steel sheets, with a mineral fibre in- to line plant rooms within existing structures.
fill. On one side of the panel the
metal sheet is perforated to allow Performance
sound to pass inside where it is
absorbed by the in-fill material. Attenuation to sound transmission can be up to
Acoustic panels can be designed to about 40 dB(A).
offer very high attenuation to noise
transmission that is better than an Absorption can be over 90% at middle and high
equivalent solid structure of the frequencies.
same weight. Also, their absorptive
properties are used to control Cost
reverberation in confined spaces.
Acoustic panels need not be expensive, but
prices increase if attractive finishes are
required.
£100-150 / m2

Sheet 5 Acoustic Lagging
A flexible material wrapped around noise sources in the same way as thermal lagging.
Acoustic lagging is generally Lagging to pipes and ducts. Sealing around most
made of a laminated quilt acoustic installations.
comprising a tough outer skin,
mineral fibre quilting and a Acoustic curtain for pumps, fans, hand tools etc.
heavy (often lead) internal layer
providing mass. Such lagging is Performance
flexible and can be fitted around
complex shapes and is ideal for 10 to 15 dB(A)
sealing holes and gaps around
solid acoustic elements. A Cost
similar product can be hung as
acoustic curtain around plant Relatively expensive per unit area, but generally used in
that is moved frequently of in small quantities.
very confined spaces.
£15-30 per m2

Sheet 6 Vibr ation Damping
Damping materials applied as an adhesive, flexible ‘putty’ or sheeting to vibrating metal

sheeting.
Metal sheeting, has a tendency to Casings and guards to most machinery, eg conveyors,
‘ring’ when vibrated by heavy pumps. Rotating parts.
machinery. Large unsupported
areas of metal can be very Performance
efficient at converting vibrational
energy into audible frequencies Performance varies, but 10 dB(A) is achievable.
and radiating noise, rather like a Damping of machinery casing is most effective on
loud speaker cone. Casings and large areas of thin gauge metal.
guards can be damped using
various damping or ‘anti- Cost
drumming’ compounds.
Variable depending on product.

Sheet 7 Impact Deadening
Noise generated by impacts on metal surfaces such as loading material into dump trucks, can
be reduced by applying a resilient surface treatment.
Deadening materials can be useful on Metal floors or wall coverings in warehouses

metal floors, chutes or containers, but or industrial stores.
there are practical problems with wear
and tear. For metal floors blended resin Lorries, metal chutes, hoppers.
compounds have been developed that
damp noise generated by trolley wheels Performance
and foot falls whilst offering adequate
grip, strength and weatherproofing. Impact noise can be reduced by 10 dB(A) or
Metal chutes and lorry holds can be more.
surfaced with abrasion-resistant rubber
to reduce noise generated by material Cost
impacts. Resilient materials can also be
used to help reduce noise generated by Metal floor treatment - approximately £66 per
inherently noisy material, eg barrels, m2 .
scrap metal and pipes.
20 Tonne Dump Truck - £26,000.

Sheet 8 Attenuator s
Attenuators are designed to allow air to flow between a series of splitters which absorb noise.
They come in all shapes and sizes.
Attenuators can be part of a ducted air Standard attenuators : heating, ventilation and
flow system or can be inserted in a wall, air conditioning systems, fans.
partition or enclosure opening. Several
splitters divide the air flow. Splitters Specialist attenuators: as used on motor
comprise perforated metal or rigid mesh vehicles, modified materials allow high
enclosing an acoustic in-fill which is temperature and corrosive gas discharges to be
generally some form of mineral fibre. silenced.
Problems include degradation of the in-
fill material and pressure loss (energy Performance
consumption) due to restricting the air
flow. Excessive air flow speed can Performance is a function of attenuator length
regenerate noise. These problems do not and the ratio of the cross-sectional areas of the
prevent attenuators being very widely splitters and the whole attenuator. Up to 45
used in industry. dB(A).
Cost
Approximately £250-400 /m3. Specialist
applications can be very expensive.

Sheet 9 Steam and Air Diffuser s
Metal fittings attached to the outlets of high pressure steam or air discharge.
Steam traps and compressed air Steam and high pressure air system discharges.
valves, used in petrochemical,
food and other process plants to Performance
release excessive pressure,
generate noise because of the high Performance is best at mid to high frequencies and
pressure and velocity of the typically gives up to about 15 dB(A).
discharge. The discharge flow can
be passed through a diffuser of Cost
enlarged diameter filled with a
flow resistant material such as Simple steam trap diffuser - Approximately £20 each.
stainless steel wool to slow down
the gas speed, thus reducing noise Specialist compressed air attenuators can be
generation. expensive.

Sheet 10 Vibr ation Isolation Mounts
Spring or rubber mounts located between vibrating plant and their supporting structure reduce
the transfer of vibrational energy into the structure where it may transferred and re-radiate as
unwanted noise.
Stiff springs or low Vibration isolation mounts can be fitted to most

compliance rubber/neoprene mechanical equipment, including pumps, fans, generators,
pads are housed in metal compressors, and also to pipes, and ductwork.
retaining fittings forming a
mount or hanger to which the Performance
plant is bolted. The mount is
designed to be deflected under Vibration isolation can be almost complete for correctly
static load and to absorb the selected mounts. Installation is harder for large heavy
predominant frequencies at plant and performance can be compromised at lower
which the plant oscillates. In frequencies. Noise reduction performance will depend on
practice this means selecting a the surrounding structure and its noise transfer and
mount whose natural radiation characteristics.
frequency is well below the
driving frequencies in the Cost
plant. Poor installation can
lead to flanking paths, poor Modest costs for simple installations requiring typically 4
performance or amplification. to 10 mounts, depending on loading and support
requirements (see Sheet 11).

Sheet 11 Iner tia Bases
A massive, usually concrete, block onto which the plant is mounted via anti-vibration mounts
or pads.
Mounting equipment on spring or Mainly applicable to large heavy machinery in

rubber isolators makes the system combination with vibration isolation mounts or
inherently unstable and can compromise sometimes rubber/neoprene pads for extra
the safe operation of the plant. These stability.
problems can usually be overcome with
inertia bases which provide the Performance
following benefits; lower centre of
gravity, reduced movement during start See vibration isolation Mounts (sheet 10).
up, and even spreading of load.
Cost
Where plant is permitted a degree of
freedom to move on such systems, Inertia bases can increase the cost of vibration
flexible connectors may be required in isolation, particularly if one-off design is
pipework or other services to prevent required.
fatigue and vibration transfer via
flanking paths.

Appendix F - Case Studies
pF
F1 CHANGE OF PROCESS IN A FOUNDRY
F.1.1 Backgr ound
The organisation described in this study produce malleable metal castings for fluid movement
systems. For many years their foundry has been operating using a coke fired cupola furnace
to melt scrap metal and limestone to produce molten raw material.
A cupola furnace operates by melting metal in a large bowl or crucible which is heated, in
this case by solid fuel burnt in the crucible. Metal and other raw materials are added at
regular intervals, melt in the heat produced by the solid fuel and form a flux which then runs
out in a continuous stream of molten metal. The heating and melting of the various materials
produces a large amount of fume which is drawn off by extraction systems and treated to
reduce its toxicity before being discharged to atmosphere.
Noise from the cupola system and associated operations was apparent in residential areas
some distance from the site. Concerns over noise emission from the site affecting both the
existing residential areas and proposed new developments prompted a comprehensive noise
survey. A strategy to develop a noise control programme resulted which addressed both
existing noise sources and future projects including a New Electric Melt Facility to replace
the old cupola system. The development of the Electric Melt significantly reduced the impact
of site noise in residential areas.
F1.2 Descr iption of the Site
Originally a green field development, the 20 acre site produces castings for pumps and valves
using scrap metal from local sources. A large number of dust and fume extraction systems
are located close to the boundary. Over many years residential developments have taken
place around the site, some of which are adjacent to the site boundary, with further residential
developments planned (see Figure F1.1).

Figur e F1.1 Site Location Plan showing Noise Sour ces and Noise Sensitive Ar eas
F1.3 Planning the New Electr ic Melt Facility
It was decided to replace the existing cupola melt facility with a new electric melt operation
for the following reasons:-
· to reduce solid waste in the form of clinker and slag and associated waste disposal costs;
and
· to reduce emissions to atmosphere together with associated costs of meeting increasingly

more onerous IPC limits.
To achieve this without disrupting production, the new facility was built in parallel with, and
adjacent to, the existing cupola.
During the pre-planning stage a decision was made to address the noise considerations early
in the design. Acoustic consultants were employed for initial advice and subsequently to
assist in the design of a new building to contain the Electric Melt furnaces and the raw
materials store, which included an area for lorries tipping scrap metal, an overhead crane and
the furnace charger.

F1.4 Assessment of Noise Impact at Receiver s
Noise from the existing stock yard, including handling of scrap metal, overhead crane and
charger operations and noise emission from the extraction systems, resulted in adverse noise
impacts on nearby residential areas. Noise from the site included continuous tonal noise and
high levels of intermittent impulsive noise.
Measurements of noise from the extraction systems taken at the adjacent site boundary
showed the frequency spectrum given in Table F1.1, with a clear tone apparent at 250 Hertz:
Table F1.1 Measur ed Noise Fr equency Spectr um at Site Boundar y

Fr equency 63 125 250 500 1000 2000 4000 Her tz
Decibels 68 66 74 63 57 54 50 DB
Impulsive noise was apparent at the site boundary when the overhead crane dumped metal
into the feeder for the cupola charger. This operation took place every 45 minutes and lasted
for approximately 10 minutes. Other intermittent impulsive noise in the stock yard adjacent
to the charger was produced by forklifts discharging coke, limestone and metal returns, and
delivery lorries tipping their loads of raw materials and scrap metal. These operations
typically produced LAmax levels 20 dB above the general site noise.
An environmental noise survey carried out in and around the foundry indicated LAeq noise
levels of 17dB above background in the nearby residential areas, a situation which was
clearly unacceptable.
Tonal noise from the cupola wet scrubber discharge chimney was apparent at a distance of
over 500 metres. Impact noise from lorries discharging metal was distinct at a greater
distance. Low frequency noise from the dry dust extraction systems associated with the
cupola melt was also apparent in nearby residential areas.
F1.5 Identification of Noise Sour ces
Following initial discussions to identify the requirements for noise control and possible
methods of meeting those requirements, a further noise survey was conducted specifically to
identify noise levels associated with the operation of the cupola melt system. The survey
comprised of a number of measurements made near to the main noise sources in order to
identify their relative contribution to the overall noise level experienced at receivers outside
the site. The noise survey was followed by a BS4142 noise assessment which showed Rating
Levels 22dB(A) above daytime background noise levels, and 14dB(A) above night-time
background noise levels, at the boundary adjacent to nearby noise sensitive receivers. As part
of the on-going noise reduction programme, a target for total site noise emission at these
boundaries had been set. This target required an overall reduction in site noise Leq levels of
17dB(A).
The cupola operated on a continuous 24 hour basis. It was fed with raw materials by a
vibrating conveyor charger and an overhead gantry crane, both of which were located
externally in a stock yard. The cupola extraction system operated through a wet scrubber
which discharged at high level, with a secondary dry dust extraction system outlet exhausting
at low level.

Melt operations consisted of three distinct phases with the following associated levels of
noise emission:
· Delivery lorries arriving and discharging scrap metal during the day producing maximum
noise levels during tipping of LAmax 110dB at 10m.
· Charger filling with the overhead crane dropping scrap metal into the charger producing
intermittent noise levels of LAmax 96dB at 10m, and the vibrator conveyor producing a
continuous noise level of LAeq 78dB at 10m.
· Furnace operation with a continuous noise level of LAeq 79dB at 10m from the wet
scrubber system with a distinct tone at 250 Hertz, and LAeq 73dB at 10m from the dry dust
extraction system with large low frequency components at 63Hz and 125 Hz
The resultant cumulative noise level at the site boundary adjacent to the cupola stock yard
was LAeq 78dB with distinct tonal characteristics and intermittent high levels of impulsive
noise.
F1.6 Noise Contr ol Techniques
The design of the new electric melt facility had to achieve the desired level of noise reduction
whilst addressing a number of operational requirements, including:
· the requirements of overhead crane movements for handling raw materials;
· access for delivery vehicles and forklifts;
· weather shielding for the electric furnaces; and
· the provision of a good working environment for employees.
With existing boundary noise levels from cupola melt operations of LAeq 78dB and a final
target for site noise at the boundary of LAeq 58dB, an overall reduction of melt operation
noise of LAeq 20dB was necessary.
It was decided to house the complete facility in a building giving adequate reduction of noise
to meet the requirements of the noise reduction programme.
The new building was constructed on a steel portal frame with dense concrete blockwork to a
height of two metres and double skinned composite profiled metal cladding above to the
eaves. The roof of the building was also constructed of double skinned composite metal
cladding.
The main access door was designed to be large enough to allow an articulated lorry with a
tipping trailer to exit with the trailer raised. This presented technical problems due to the
effects of wind on such a large area, and for sealing the door when closed. The solution was
to fit a top-hung door with flexible rubber strip seals all around the perimeter.
A new dust extraction plant was installed for the Electric Melt facility. During the design and
planning stage, noise emission limits based on predetermined targets, were set for this

extraction system. The system was placed where it was screened from nearby noise sensitive
receptors by the new Electric Melt building. Figure F1.2 shows the layout of the buildings.
This resulted in a reduction of fan noise LAeq of 10dB at affected receptors.
Figur e F1.2 Building Layout

F1.7 Over all Impr ovement Achieved
The average sound reduction performance of the new building was estimated at 40dB dB(A).
Subsequent noise measurements have shown that overall site LAeq noise levels have been
effectively reduced by 12dB at the boundary adjacent to the new facility indicating a
significant improvement gained by the development of the Electric Melt. Figure F1.3 gives
the results of the 24 hours noise surveys before and after work.
Figur e F1.3 Befor e and After Noise Sur vey Results
The noise reduction achieved was due to:-
· the enclosure of the melt process and scrap handling in an acoustically designed building;
· the redundancy of the wet scrubber system;
· the replacement of old dry extraction systems with new low noise systems; and
· the location of noisy plant where it is screened from noise sensitive receptors by on-site
buildings.
F1.8 Outcome of Noise Contr ol Measur es
A number of significant benefits have been realised with the change from coke firing to
electric melt.

F1.8.1 Envir onmental Benefits
· Reduction of solid waste in the form of slag and clinker;

· reduction of emissions to atmosphere;
· discontinuation of the use of coke and limestone as raw materials;
· reduction in road traffic related to import of raw materials;
· increased recycling of local waste materials in the form of high quality scrap metal;
· transfer to cleaner power (electricity) from fossil fuel; and
· substantial reduction in environmental noise emission;
F1.8.2 Financial benefits

· Reduction in the cost of raw materials (coke and limestone).
· reduction of waste disposal costs.
· reduction of energy costs due to negotiation of favourable terms with the electricity supply
company.
The change from coke firing to electric melt has had two short-term disbenefits.
· Cost of building new facility.

· disruption of site during construction.
F2 A MALTINGS REDUCES ENVIRONMENTAL NOISE IMPACT

USING LOW COST, LOW TECH SOLUTIONS
F.2.1 Intr oduction
A large maltings facility, operating in a rural community, was advised by their Local
Authority that a possible noise nuisance existed due to high levels of noise arising from the
site. A large number of individual sources were found to be responsible for the alleged
nuisance, which were effectively attenuated using 'low tech' and cost effective solutions.
The maltings facility covers an area of approximately 20 acres (8 hectares), and is situated in
a rural location which is subject to very low background noise levels. The original facility
was developed over 100 years ago when local housing for employees was provided in the
immediate vicinity of the site. However, these properties are no longer owned by the
company, and are now occupied by residents who have recently moved into the area. Due to
a lack of other industrial activities in the village, noise arising from the maltings makes a
significant contribution to ambient noise levels in the area.
Over the past 20 years, processes at the site have been modernised and levels of production
increased. As a result, noise levels have also increased, causing disturbance to local residents
in the surrounding community.

Low background noise levels in the area, coupled with the nature of the noise, which
included discrete screeches and clatters from conveyor systems, hissing from grain chutes
and fan noise, led to a number of complaints from local residents. As a result, the matter was
taken up by the Local Authority.
A noise survey and subsequent BS 4142 assessment carried out by the Local Authority
indicated that noise arising from the site exceeded background noise levels by around 26 dB
at the nearest noise-sensitive dwellings, a situation which was clearly unacceptable. This
noise level was adjusted to take into account the tonal and impulsive nature of the noise,
which can cause greater annoyance, and is called the Rating Level. A prominent tonal
component can be detected in one-third band spectra, if the level of one band exceeds the
level in adjacent bands by more than 5 dB. The presence of a distinct tone like this can result
in a noise which is particularly annoying and intrusive.
To avoid the service of a Noise Abatement Notice under Part III of the Environmental
Protection Act 1990, the company were advised by the Local Authority that prompt action
should be taken to reduce site noise.
F2.4 Identification of Individual Noise Sour ces
A large number of individual sources were identified on the site, including noise arising from
fans, conveyors, elevators and grain chutes. The sources were categorised as follows:
· continuous, tonal fan noise;

· clatter, screeches and clonks from conveyor systems; and
· high frequency hissing sounds from grain chutes.
Noise arising from fan systems was considered to be the most significant source, although
intermittent, mechanical noise from grain transfer systems was found to be the cause of most
community annoyance. Continuous fan noise from the drying and aeration plant was also
audible at the site boundary and contributed significantly to noise levels in the area. This
source of noise was considered to be responsible for the underlying noise impact.
A specific noise survey of the site identified high levels of noise, with tonal characteristics,
arising from three individual fan systems.
In the first fan system two fans (illustrated in Figure F2.1 Centrifugal Blower) operated an air
drying system which discharged directly into a small building containing the drying plant.
Silencers were not fitted to the fan exhausts.
A noise level of 101 dB LAeq was measured at a distance of 1 metre from the fan exhausts,
with a level in excess of 70 dB LAeq at the boundary of the site, around 30 metres away.
Strong tonal characteristics of 107 dB at 250 Hertz and 99 dB at 1000 Hertz were also
identified.

Figur e F2.1 Centr ifugal Blower
The maltings building, which is constructed from brickwork, with a corrugated sheet roof and
open eaves, provided little reduction in the noise arising from the plant.
For the second system, which operated a dust extraction unit for the main grain input from
delivery lorries a noise level of 86 dB LAeq was measured at a distance of 5 metres. As the
filter unit was located in an open loading bay, no attenuation was provided by enclosure. The
dust extraction system bag filter utilised a self-cleaning mechanism which operated when the
fan was switched off. As a result, when large volumes of dust built up in the bag filters, fan
noise would increase by 5 dB(A) with a distinct tone of 84 dB at 1000 Hertz.
The third fan system operated an aeration plant for the fermentation process. Although the
intake was fitted with an attenuator, noise levels in excess of 95 dB(A) were measured at a
distance of 1 metre, with distinct tones of 93 dB at 250 Hertz and 96 dB at 500 Hertz.
Secondary noise sources were associated with grain transfer systems. Much of the plant on
site operates for 24 hours a day on a batch process system, with batches starting or finishing
late at night and early in the morning. At the start and finish of each batch conveyors and
associated equipment run empty without their loads of grain. As a result, mechanical noise
which was reduced or damped when grain was in the system, often became more apparent.
This included creaks and groans from the conveyor chains, clonks and clatters where chains
rounded conveyor ends and bearing/motor noise from conveyor and elevator drives. The
nature of this noise, in addition to the time of its occurrence, resulted in a number of
complaints from the local community.
When operated with a full load, many of the mechanical noises experienced when the transfer
system was empty, were reduced. However, mid to high frequency noise produced by grain
dropping down elevator towers and into chutes, became more apparent. Noise levels at
around 81 dB LAeq at a distance of 1 metre from the chutes, with tones of 72 dB at 2000 Hertz
and 78 dB at 4000 Hertz were measured. The resulting hissing noise was apparent over much
of the site and audible at nearby residential properties.

F2.5 Noise Contr ols and Techniques
Each source of noise was addressed in terms of the significance of its impact on the local
community. Two factors influenced the resulting noise control programme:
· the results of the BS 4142 assessment which showed that there was a high level of noise at
the site boundary; and
· the addition of a 5 dB penalty to the Rating Level due to the intrusive characteristics of
mechanical noises.
Initially, a reduction in the overall level of noise arising from the site was achieved by
silencing the three major fan systems. Because only a small number of secondary sources
were audible at nearby residential properties, attenuation of grain transfer systems was
considered to be unnecessary.
A target to reduce fan noise at the site boundary by at least 5 dB LAeq was established. Once
achieved, secondary noise control operations addressed the most significant mechanical
noises individually, until they were no longer causing noise problems in the community.
F2.5.1 Fan Systems
In-line absorptive silencers costing around £250 each were fitted to the exhausts of the
Centrifugal Blower, reducing noise levels by 20 dB LAeq.
A reduction in the level of noise arising from the dust extraction system bag filter unit, was
achieved through the use of a timer in the electrical control circuit, which switched the
system off at hourly intervals, thus engaging the self cleaning mechanism. Overall noise
levels from the dust extraction system were reduced by 5 dB LAeq and the tone at 1000 Hertz
was eliminated.
Reducing noise levels arising from the aeration fan was more difficult. High noise levels
were emitted from the air intake, in addition to secondary noise which radiated from the fan
casing. An additional splitter silencer was fitted to the fan intake, with an insertion loss (ie
the amount by which noise is reduced) of around 10 dB at 500 Hertz. The fan casing was
fitted with an acoustic enclosure constructed from 16 gm sheet steel on a steel framework,
with an internal sound absorption quilt of 50 mm thick Rockwool and an inner skin of
perforated metal. The resultant reduction in fan noise of around 10 dB LAeq, reduced
boundary noise levels by 7 dB LAeq.
F2.5.2 Gr ain Tr ansfer Systems
Following this reduction in site boundary noise levels, attention was turned to controlling
mechanical noise from the grain transfer systems. Noise consisting of clonks and hissing,
arising from around 20 grain transfer systems on the site, and had been a source of complaint
in the local community.
A night time survey identified the systems responsible for the most intrusive noises. Where
conveyor and elevator casings were transmitting noise, acoustic damping material in the form
of dense PVC matting was attached to the outer surface of the casing with adhesive. Where

conveyor and elevator drive mechanisms were directly responsible for high noise emission,
small local enclosures were fabricated around the noisy area. These were constructed from
18 g steel sheet on angle iron frames, lined internally with 50 mm of dense Rockwool held in
place by a perforated metal inner skin.
This reduced mechanical noise by between 5 dB(A) and 10 dB(A) at each grain transfer
system.
Grain transfer noise was also audible from several of the high level chutes. These were
treated in similar manner, by applying PVC matting to elevator casings. High frequency
noise, of the type arising from the chutes, is treated effectively by damping, and as a result, a
significant reduction in excess of 10 dB(A) from each treated chute was achieved.
Mechanical noise from the grain transfer systems was controlled to the extent where the
formerly intrusive clonks and groans were barely audible off-site. In addition, hissing from
grain chutes was no longer audible at the site boundary.
A noise survey carried out following fan noise control demonstrated a reduction of 7 dB LAeq
at the site boundary, reducing the BS 4142 Rating Level to 14 dB above background. This
represented a major achievement in noise control for so large a site, although it did not meet
Local Authority’s expectations. Furthermore, residual noise impact at nearby residential
properties were below that recognised by the World Health Organisation as likely to cause
interference with amenity.
There have been no significant disbenefits to this exercise, with the exception of the costs
required for equipment and in man hours for installation. Most of the work was carried out
in-house with local enclosures manufactured on site.
The employees' working environment was also improved through a reduction in noise levels
in the drying shed and loading bay. Relations with the community and the Local Authority
have also improved and the threat of Statutory Noise Nuisance action was withdrawn.
F3 A MANUFACTURER OF PAPER PRODUCTS REDUCES

MATERIALS HANDLING NOISE USING INNOVATIVE
TECHNIQUES
F.3.1 Backgr ound
An international paper product manufacturer experiencing neighbourhood noise problems

reduced tonal noise from air-handling material transport systems, and impulsive noise from
high pressure blow-off exhausts, using low cost, innovative technology.
The production facility is housed in a single factory building, covering some 14 acres.
Fifteen production lines, running continuously, produce consumer goods manufactured from

paper pulp. Each production line is fed by one of two materials handling systems which
transfer pulp pneumatically. There are over 30 paddle bladed axial fans in each system,
ranging in size from 1.5 kW to 55 kW.
The facility is located in a coastal area, some distance from any major residential
development, although two farm houses are situated within 500 metres of the factory. The
site lies in a natural depression which generally gives good acoustic screening. However, the
two nearby farm houses are on high ground and have a direct line of site to the factory
building, which exposes them to noise arising from the site.
Complaints had been received from residents at both properties, one complaining of tonal
noise, and the other, of intermittent, impulsive noise.
A prominent tonal component can be detected in one-third band spectra, if the level of one
band exceeds the level in adjacent bands by more than 5 dB. The presence of a distinct tone
like this can result in a noise which is particularly annoying and intrusive.
A night time noise level of 53 dB LAeq with a prominent tone of 63 dB at 160 Hertz was
measured at the boundary of one property. This was compared to noise levels measured as
part of a BS 4142 assessment and environmental noise survey, carried out during an
Environmental Impact Assessment conducted prior to the development of the factory. An
increase in ambient noise levels of 10 dB(A) since the last noise survey were identified.
When a 5 dB penalty for tonal characteristics, in line with the BS 4142 assessment, was
added to the measured level (called the Specific Noise Level), the resultant Rating Level of 58
dB(A) exceeded the background noise level by 15 dB(A), a situation which was considered to
be unacceptable.
At the second property, impulsive air exhaust noise was measured at 12 dB above ambient
noise levels with a peak of 68 dB at 2000 Hertz. This noise continued throughout the night
and created a severe disturbance to the residents.
The factory operates over 24 hours, seven days a week and the materials handling systems
run continuously throughout the week.
These systems transfer dry paper pulp between the raw materials input area and the
production lines in a airborne suspension, via 600 mm ducting. The system is driven by a
large number of staging fans, with pressure fans at the input end and vacuum fans past the
production lines. Surplus material is recycled via an in line reclaim facility. At the end of the
system waste air is discharged through two large dust collection units containing standard bag
filters.
The 55 kW paddle bladed system exhaust fans produced noise levels of 67 dB LAeq at a
distance of 100 metres from the exhaust louvres, with a distinct tone of 75 dB at 125 Hertz.
Narrow band analysis was used to define the tone further, which was then identified at 160

Hertz, with associated harmonics at 250 and 500 Hertz. Calculations showed that this tone
was related to the blade passing frequency (27) of the exhaust fan.
Noise arising from two air pressure blow-off exhausts serving the reclaim area baler which
discharges through the roof of the factory building were also identified. Because the exhausts
were screened by the roof line of the factory, exhaust noise was not audible at ground level
on the factory site. However, the exhausts produced distinct intermittent impulsive noise
around 12 dB above ambient levels in the 2000 Hertz Band, at one of the local farmhouses
which is situated on high ground.
A number of factors influenced the choice of noise control for the materials handling system
exhaust.
The systems handle dry paper pulp with a high dust content, which has the potential to cause
a dust explosion. The bag filter systems include a spark suppression system and it was
important to ensure that this was not compromised. Consequently, standard end of line
absorptive attenuators could not be fitted to the bag house exhaust louvres. In line absorptive
and reactive silencers were considered but rejected due to the risk of clogging with paper
residues.
Reducing the fan speed, which would have reduced the noise output, was also rejected.
Reworking the control systems would be expensive in terms of man-hours and would require
the complete system to be shut down for a number of days while the new control systems
were installed. In addition, there was concern that a reduction in fan speed and associated
reduction in air flow, would have affected the efficiency of the system. Fan replacement with
quieter centrifugal fans was dismissed as too costly.
Re-working the blades of the 55 kW exhaust with 600 mm ducting fans was also considered,
but as the maximum reduction in noise levels was estimated at only 3 dB(A), this option was
not considered to be cost effective.
The possibility of applying active noise control (ANC) to the exhaust fans was also
examined. A reduction of 10 dB at low frequencies was predicted, but due to the costs
associated with ANC (in the region of £4,000 per fan system) which would be required for a
minimum of four fans, other methods of noise control were investigated.
A solution was finally found using Helmholtz resonators. The Helmholtz principle uses a
vessel, or side branch, to produce an air spring which absorbs energy from sound waves in
the main duct. Although resonators cannot operate over wide bandwidths, they control pure
tones effectively. As the materials handling system emitted a tone at 160 Hertz, this option
was considered to be a suitable one.
A simple Helmholtz resonator was fabricated in-house using a 250 mm steel tubing, 1 metre
in length. This was attached to the 600 mm duct by a 75 mm right angled branch, bolted
directly to the duct. An adjustable piston was fitted inside the resonator operated by a screw
thread in the closed end.
(27) The blade passing frequency is calculated by multiplying the number of fan blades by the fan speed in revolutions per second.

Figur e F3.1 Helmholtz Resonator Design
The assembly was bolted to the main duct and in-duct noise levels measured with the
resonator piston fully retracted, using a narrow band analyser. The piston was then screwed
down until the 160 Hertz tone was reduced to its lowest measurable level at 16 dB. The
operation was successful and as a result, more resonators were fitted to the trial system to
reduce harmonics. In total, 4 resonators were used resulting in an overall reduction of 10
dB(A) and the elimination of the tonal component.
For the baler exhaust noise, a partial acoustic enclosure made from sheet metal with an
internal liner of mineral fibre behind perforated metal, was constructed for each exhaust. The
enclosures were designed so that they formed a box over each exhaust, without touching
them. Open side vents (situated such that they were directed away from residential
dwellings) were included to ensure that exhaust air flow was not restricted.
On completion of the installation of the Helmholtz resonators, a follow-up noise survey was
undertaken to determine the reduction in noise at the affected residential property. The
survey showed that overall site noise had been reduced by 2 dB LAeq at the boundary of the
residential properties, and the 160 Hertz tone eliminated.
Noise from the baler exhausts was reduced to a level where it was no longer audible at the
farmhouse boundary.
To date there have been no adverse operational side effects with either the Helmholtz
resonators or the enclosures around the baler exhausts.
In this case there were a number of benefits associated with the use of Helmholtz resonators.
The costs for standard silencers or ANC systems were at least 5 times that required for the
installation of the resonators. The costs associated with the original proposals for ANC were

in excess of £5,000 for each installation with an expected reduction in tonal noise of 6 dB at
the relevant frequencies. Total installation costs for the Helmholtz resonators, including
research and fabrication were less than £1,000.
The tonal reduction resulting from the use of each resonator, measured in-duct, was
approximately 16 dB at 160 Hertz, reducing overall duct noise levels by 3 dB(A). This is
approximately 7.5 times more cost effective than ANC for the same tonal reduction.
The performance of Helmholtz resonators is also considered to be more reliable than ANC, as
neither computer software, nor moving parts are used in resonators. The ANC system relies
on a series of in-duct microphones measuring noise before and after the control system and
using the data gained to adjust the output of a series of loudspeakers in the duct.
Consequently there are a number of components which can potentially be subject to damage.
In past applications using ANC, component failure has resulted in the system becoming
unserviceable. Helmholtz resonators do not suffer any similar mechanical failures and once
adjusted to give optimum noise reduction, remain stable. Tuneable resonators manufactured
to a standard configuration can be fitted to the materials handling systems in a number of
places, progressively reducing tonal noise. Although no calculations have been carried out to
determine the total noise reduction possible, it is estimated that an overall reduction in fan
exhaust noise of 10 dB(A) is achievable.
The simplicity of the Helmholtz resonator system means that less energy and fewer resources
are used in their manufacture than for either standard silencers or ANC systems. The overall
environmental impact of producing the resonators was therefore substantiality less than
would have been the case with any other system.
In addition, the use of a standard attenuator would have resulted in the expenditure of extra
energy to maintain efficient air flow. No loss of airflow occurred using the resonators.
Although not impeding airflow, the ANC system would have required a continuous energy
source to run the monitoring system and to power the loudspeakers.
However, considerable research was required initially to determine the optimum dimensions
for the resonators. Virtual modelling, which took several man-hours to complete, was carried
out using state of the art computer technology, although a similar amount of time would have
been required to perfect the ANC system for configuration to this specific application. The
manufacture and supply of conventional splitters or absorptive silencers would have reduced
development costs as these items are readily available 'off the shelf' or are produced to
standard designs.

F4 MINERAL FIBRE MANUFACTURING PLANT REDUCES LOW
FREQUENCY AIRBORNE NOISE BY EQUIPMENT
MODIFICATION
F.4.1 Backgr ound
In 1995 a factory which produces mineral fibre received complaints from a local resident,
regarding low frequency night time noise. Investigations revealed that very low frequency
noise, below the level which can normally be heard by human beings, was detectable inside
the complainant’s house. The noise was traced to two vibrating screens, which had recently
been installed at the factory (illustrated in Figure F4.1).
Following the complaint and on the basis of a background noise survey, the Local Authority
determined that a statutory noise nuisance existed. Simple modifications to the equipment
reduced the low frequency noise to a more acceptable level.
Figur e F4.1 Nor ther n Boundar y of the Site Adjacent to the Residential Ar ea
The site covers an area of approximately 20 acres and is situated in an urban area on the
coast. To the north and east, are established residential developments, with the closest
dwellings situated within approximately 100 metres of the site boundary (illustrated in Figure
F4.2). The factory produces fibreglass insulation materials, using a continuous process, and
comprises a number of large buildings which are inter-linked in the centre of the site with a
perimeter road for service vehicles and HGVs.
Several sources of noise were audible at the site boundary, including noise from various
process fans, pumps, and a low-frequency rumble from the filter plant. Noise also arises
from lorry traffic servicing the plant.
Buildings and embankments located near to the site serve to screen many residential
dwellings from plant noise. Although this type of screening can help to reduce high
frequency noise, it is less effective at screening lower frequencies. Due to its long

wavelength characteristics, low frequency noise travels further and penetrates building
structures more readily than noise of a higher frequency.
Figur e F4.2 Site Plan Showing Residential Ar ea to the Nor th West
F4.3 Assessment of the Noise Impact at Receptor s
A noise survey was conducted to determine the level of the low frequency noise outside the
nearest residential dwelling from which complaints had been made. Noise from the screens
was not audible during the survey, but could be detected by the measuring instruments, at a
very low frequency, which was identifiable in the linear and 1/3 octave band levels, as
detailed in Table F4.1 below.

Table F4.1 Noise Levels Measur ed Outside the Pr oper ty of Concer n
Octave Band Centr e Fr equency
dB (A) Linear 31 63 125 250 500 1k 2K Hz
19 49 46 38 25 18 11 10 10 DB
1/3 Octave Band Centr e Fr equency
20 25 31 40 50 63 Hz
40 49 34 26 61 < 25 dB
Because the noise was of such a low frequency, and varied over time, it was only audible
under certain conditions within the dwelling. The noise was most discernible in the
complainant’s bedroom, and was of a very low frequency, accompanied by a distinctive
’beat’. It was not possible to record internal levels during the survey due to other sources of
noise in the area, and as a result, the assessment could only relate to external conditions
where the noise was inaudible, but measurable. The ‘A’ weighted sound levels at the house
were dominated by local traffic and railway noise.
When dealing with environmental noise complaints such as this, the methodology outlined in
British Standard BS 4142 in generally used. Noise levels outside the complainant’s property
are measured with the offending plant switched on and off. By applying corrections to take
into account any tonal components or impulsive characteristics which can cause greater
annoyance, the two levels are compared. The difference between the two levels can then be
used to indicate the likelihood of complaint, eg a difference of 10 dB indicates that
complaints are likely, and an increase of 5 dB is of marginal significance.
Modern, integrating sound level meters can record levels below the threshold of human
hearing, so it is important to relate noise levels to reasonable criteria in addition to subjective
comment. Noise levels arising from the screens were predicted using the methodology
outlined in BS 4142. The predicted Rating Level of 34 dB LAeq was at a level which should
not normally give rise to complaints.
F4.4 Identification of Noise Sour ces
The recently installed vibrating screens were identified as the cause of the low frequency
noise problem (illustrated in Figure F4.3). The screens are operated by an eccentric weight
which creates an out of balance force. This causes the screens to vibrate, exciting the
surrounding air at the same frequency. It was this low frequency component arising from the
screens which excited the complainant’s building, causing disturbance.

Figur e F4.3 The Vibr ating Scr eens Installed at the Factor y
Noise measurements were repeated outside the property with the vibrating screens running at
high speed (1450 rpm), at low speed (850 rpm), and with the screens switched off. During
the survey it was not possible to detect changes in noise levels as the screen speed was varied,
although it was possible to measure them.
The octave and 1/3 octave band levels showed a clear increase over background when the
screens operated at 1450 rpm, but not when they operated at 825 rpm. Because the noise
levels were extremely low, ie less than 20 dB (A), measurement was very difficult. Any
increase in background noise levels for example, from the passage of a distant vehicle, meant
that measurements had to be repeated.
When the screens operated at 1450 rpm, the noise was just audible in the complainant’s
bedroom, but at 825 rpm, it was impossible to detect.
A noise level at 25 Hz was measurable at the complainant’s property. As a result it was

possible to estimate overall noise levels based on measurements made at the screens. On-site
recordings were made close to and opposite the screens to determine the reduction in noise
levels resulting from changes in screen speed. As the plant was capable of operating with a
single screen, the tests were repeated with only one screen in use.
Following the measurements, a variable speed controller was fitted, the speed of the screens
was reduced, and the vibration isolation was adjusted. The operation of only one screen at a
reduced speed, compared with two at the original speed, reduced the overall noise level and
removed the beating effect.
Table F4.2 below details the 1/3 octave band width analysis at 1450 rpm and 850 rpm,
illustrating how frequency effects vary with speed.

Noise levels in the dominant frequency (20 Hz) are reduced by over 10 dB by changing to the
third screen speed. It was considered that the plant could operate with a single screen
running at a motor speed of 825 rpm.
Table F4.2 Var iation in Noise Emission at Differ ent Oper ating Speeds
Fr equency 20 25 31 40 50 63 Hz
1450 rpm/1 screen 82 78 67 75 71 73 dB
1000 rpm/1 screen 66 70 66 68 66 70 dB
825 rpm/1 screen 59 67 62 65 62 66 dB
Noise levels from the modified screen were re-measured on site and within the complainants
house. When only one screen operated at 825 rpm, the linear noise levels were reduced by 10
dB, and the strong tonal component removed, as indicated in Table F4.3. Furthermore, the
noise was no longer audible in the complainant’s bedroom and recorded levels were below
the threshold of audibility. No further noise control was considered to be necessary.
Table F4.3 Compar ison of Measur ed Noise Levels in the Bedr oom with the Scr een at
Var ious Speeds
Motor Speed Octave Band Centr e Fr equency (Hz)
r pm dB A Linear 31 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k
1450 19 49 46 38 25 18 11 10 10 11
825 18 37 35 30 24 16 11 10 10 11
off 18 40 35 30 24 17 11 10 10 11
1/3 Octave Band Centr e Fr equency (Hz)

20 25 31 40 50 63
1450 40 49 34 26 31 < 25
825 35 31 32 33 31 < 25
off 35 33 29 29 32 < 25
Noise levels were reduced to below those measured by the Local Authority at the time of the
complaints. This was due almost entirely to the reduction in screen speed. As a result, the
disturbance was effectively eliminated at a very low cost. Overall savings on energy required
to run the single screen at low speed also compensated for the man-hours taken to resolve the
problem.
As the projected life of the screen has increased following the changes, further savings have
been identified as a result of reduced maintenance time and lower maintenance costs. Total
estimated costs were £1,500 (1999) which includes the fees for acoustic consultancy.

F5 COMBINED CO-GENERATION GAS TURBINE (CHP) FOR
HEAT AND POWER AT A FOOD PRODUCTION PLAN
F5.1 Backgr ound
On a major food manufacturing site steam requirements had historically been met by a boiler
system comprising five coal-fired units, and electricity requirements, via a connection to the
national grid. The 60 year old boiler system was subject to air pollution control under Part I
of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and required retrofitting with flue gas treatment if
it was to continue to operate.
As an alternative the owners proposed to install a cleaner, more energy efficient combined
co-generation gas turbine facility, to provide steam and heat for the site. However, the
proposed location of the Combined Heat and Power (CHP) facility adjacent to noise sensitive
residential dwellings, meant that careful selection and design of noise control equipment was
necessary to ensure that local planning conditions were met. Enclosure of all plant associated
with the facility in a single building was proposed to ensure optimum noise reduction.
The 140 acre site operates continuously over 24 hours, and is the largest industrial site in the
area. The location of the proposed CHP installation is approximately 200 metres away from
the nearest residential properties, (illustrated in Figure F5.1).
Figur e F5.1 Plant Layout Plan

Prior to the development of the CHP facility, the Local Authority advised that an
environmental noise survey should be carried out in surrounding residential areas. The
survey identified an existing night-time background noise level of Noise Rating 35, which is
roughly equivalent to 40dB(A) at the nearest residential properties.
Noise Rating (NR) curves are often used to assess the acceptability of a noise to ensure
preservation of hearing, speech and communication, and to avoid annoyance. Because noise
limiting criteria based on NR specify noise limits at each octave band between 63 Hz to 8
kHz, they can be more onerous than criteria based on BS 4142, where an equivalent
continuous noise level (dB LAeq) is specified, which is averaged over each octave band.
A background noise level of 40 dB LAeq is typical of night time noise levels in mixed
industrial and residential areas in large conurbations. In this case, the dominant source of
noise in the area was due to the 24 hour production facility on the site and associated site
traffic.
The Local Authority also expressed concern over ‘creeping’ background noise levels in the
area. This can occur when noise criteria applied to new development allows background
noise levels to be exceeded by 1 or 2 dB, which although imperceptible, causes noise levels
to rise incrementally over time. Consequently, noise control measures for the proposed CHP
plant were required such that noise levels arising from the facility were lower than existing
background levels, to prevent any increase in ambient noise.
The proposed CHP facility included two 4.8 MWe Centrax KB7 gas turbines and associated
heat recovery boilers and gas compressors. Ancillary plant included three Wellman Robey
gas fired Euronox boilers, a water treatment plant and a stand-by diesel generator to ensure a
back-up supply of electricity in the event of a failure.
The following sources of noise from the proposed plant were considered to be significant:
· gas turbine combustion air intakes;

· gas turbine exhausts;
· breakout from the body of the gas turbines and ducting;
· gas compressors cooling air intakes and exhausts;
· stand-by diesel generator cooling and combustion air intake;
· stand by diesel generator aspiration and cooling air inlets and exhausts;
· stand-by diesel generator engine exhaust;
· direct breakout from the stand-by diesel generator; and
· gas turbine oil cooler fans intakes and exhausts.

Whilst not wishing to set too onerous noise limits on the design of the new CHP system, site
management were nevertheless keen to ensure that any noise nuisance problems were
avoided.
Achievement of NR 35 at the closest noise sensitive receptor would require noise levels to be
reduced to a maximum of 60dB(A) at a distance of 1 metre from the CHP installation. Two
possible noise control options were considered:
· Option 1 - to house each of the turbines in weather proof enclosures with additional noise
controls for ancillary plant; and
· Option 2 - to house the turbines, associated ductwork and all ancillary plant in a single
acoustically designed building, which would achieve the required reduction in noise
levels.
Costs for Option 1 were estimated at around £40,000 per enclosure with a further £15,000 to
£20,000 for secondary noise controls (at 1993 prices).
However, due to the complexity and number of noise sources arising from the facility and the
technical problems associated with the treatment of each source individually, Option 2 was
considered to be more cost effective. This would involve housing the complete turbine/boiler
installation in a single building and providing attenuators for supply air intakes and exhausts,
(illustrated in Figure F5.2).
As result, noise emissions from the proposed facility would be limited to the following
sources:
· gas turbine air intakes;

· gas turbine exhausts;
· oil cooler air intake;
· diesel generator air intake;
· gas compressor air intake and exhaust;
· building ventilation intake and exhaust;
· breakout from the building structure; and
· noise emission from the combined exhaust stack.

Figur e F5.2 Tur bine and Boiler Installation
F5.6 Gas Tur bine Air Intakes
A sound power level (SWL) of 137 dB was predicted to arise from the gas turbines. The
octave band frequency spectra arising from the turbines is illustrated below in Table F5.1.
Table F5.1 Gas Tur bine Air Intake Sound Power Level
Fr equency 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k
Hz
SWL dB 113 113 113 116 119 121 127 132 134
The reduction in noise levels, or insertion loss, required by the gas turbine air intake
attenuators (when corrected for distance attenuation and duct losses) to meet the
environmental noise criteria of NR 35, are specified below in Table F5.2.
Table F5.2 Gas Tur bine Air Intake Attenuator Inser tion Loss
Fr equency 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k
Hz
SWL dB -7 -15 -28 -50 -50 -50 -50 -50 -48

F5.7 Gas Tur bine Exhausts
In a CHP system, the gas turbines discharge through two separate exhausts. One passes
through the heat recovery boilers and the other operates in a by-pass mode when the boilers
are off-line. Both exhausts vent through a common stack. Levels of noise arising from the
by-pass exhaust were around 20 dB higher than those arising from the gas turbine heat
recovery boiler exhaust. Consequently, primary attenuators were required for the by-pass
exhausts and secondary silencers for the boiler exhausts in order to reduce turbine exhaust
noise to a level which would meet environmental noise criteria.
Pressure and heat in the exhaust system also required consideration. Losses in the gas turbine
heat recovery boilers reduce heat and pressure to levels where standard splitter attenuators
can be used at the base of the exhaust stack. However, higher pressures and temperatures
occur in the by-pass duct which prevented the use of standard splitter attenuators. This
problem was addressed through the use of specialised stainless steel hot gas attenuators, with
purpose made infills manufactured from basaltic mineral fibre.
F5.8 Oil Cooler Air Intakes
The gas turbines require efficient oil cooling which is provided by supplementary oil coolers.
Air flow over the coolers in this installation was maintained by axial flow fans with a SWL of
104 dB. Noise arising from the fan intakes were reduced to a level of 60 dB(A) externally at
1 metre, using standard splitter attenuators.
F5.9 Stand-by Diesel gener ator
In order that maximum benefit of the acoustic properties of the turbine building could be
realised, the stand-by diesel generator was located in a purpose built enclosure inside the
turbine building. The enclosure was constructed from 140 mm dense concrete blocks with
acoustic access doors to RW 45 (28). The aspiration air and cooling air intakes and the
cooling air exhaust were fitted with standard splitter attenuators to reduce noise emissions
from the generator to 65 dB(A) at 1 metre from the relevant louvres. The engine exhaust was
fitted with a conventional absorptive silencer which vented through the main stack.
F5.10 Gas compr essor s
The gas compressors were housed in a separate blockwork building. Intakes and exhausts
were fitted with standard splitter attenuators.
F5.11 Building Ventilation Intakes and Exhausts
A noise level of 83 dB (A) with a high mid frequency component was predicted to occur
inside the gas turbine building. Standard splitter attenuators on supply air and ventilation
fans were used to prevent internal noise breakout via the ventilation louvres. As a result,
noise levels were reduced to 60 dB(A) externally at 1 metre.
(28) This describes the acoustic performance or weighted sound reduction index of the door as measured under laboratory conditions.

F5.12 Br eakout fr om the Building Str uctur e
By combining all major sources of noise within one building, it was possible to control
overall noise levels from the CHP plant using standard building construction methods. In
order that the environmental noise criteria of NR 35 could be achieved at the nearest noise
sensitive receptors (when corrected for distance attenuation, directivity and surface
transmission area), a noise level of 45 dB(A) was required at the facade of the CHP plant
building. This was achieved through the use of 140 mm dense (2,000 kg/m3) blockwork in
the building wall construction.
The sound reduction index (SRI) provided by this type of wall construction is detailed below
in Table F5.3. The SRI or transmission loss of a wall or partition describes its effectiveness
as a sound insulator.
Table F5.3 Wall Sound Reduction Indices

Fr equency 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k
Hz
SRI dB 15 20 27 33 40 50 57 56 59
For the roof, composite metal cladding materials were used comprising:
· 0.7 mm outer steel panel;

· 200 mm cavity with 80 mm glassfibre quilt infill at a density of 12 kg/m3; and
· 0.7 mm steel inner liner panel.
The SRI provided by this type of roof construction material is detailed below in Table F5.4.
Table F5.4 Roof Sound Reduction Indices

Fr equency 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k
Hz
SWL dB 7 12 17 25 32 38 41 41 39
F5.13 Noise Emission fr om the Combined Exhaust Stack
The gas turbine by-pass exhausts, the heat recovery boiler exhausts and the standby diesel
generator were all designed to vent through a single stack. To reduce regenerated noise in the
stack, a limiting gas velocity of 20 metres per second was specified. Calculations based on
the combined noise emission from all flues indicated a noise impact of less than 30 dB(A) at
200 metres.
F5.14 Inter nal Noise Levels
To reduce internal noise levels to below the First Action Level of 85 dB(A) specified under
the Noise at Work Regulations 1989, purpose built acoustic enclosures were provided for the
turbine bodies. These were constructed from an inner and outer skin of 3 mm steel with an
infill of 80kg/m3 density mineral wool. High levels of noise breakout from the ductwork
between the turbines exhausts and the stacks were reduced by lagging the ductwork in an
envelope of mineral wool (128 kg/m3 density) clad with aluminium sheet to a thickness of 0.5
mm.

F5.15 Over all Impr ovement Achieved.
Although the CHP plant has not replaced other noise making equipment, the predicted noise
impact arising from the installation without the benefit of the turbine building, would have
resulted in noise levels of NR60 or approximately 65 dB(A) at the nearest residential
dwellings. This level exceeds environmental noise criteria specified by the Local Authority
by around 25 dB(A).
On commission of the CHP facility, noise surveys at the nearest residential dwellings
demonstrated that there had been no increase in ambient noise as a result of the plant. In
addition, noise from the CHP building was not detectable at the noise sensitive location
previously identified during the initial noise survey.
The approximately cost of the noise control measures was £8m at 1993 rates.
Combined Heat and Power involves the simultaneous generation of electricity and useful heat
as a single process. By using the heat produced in electricity generation, CHP can operate at
efficiency levels of up to 85%, compared to approximately 35% for conventional power
stations. In addition, CHP schemes typically use around one third less fuel than
conventional, separate methods of electricity and steam generation. As a result CHP plants
commissioned in the UK since 1990 have reduced the UK's carbon dioxide emissions by the
equivalent of over 1 million tonnes per year.
The CHP facility generates most of the electricity and steam required for the whole site,
producing 9.6 MWe of electricity and 22 tonnes of steam per hour.
Costs associated with energy consumption have been reduced by the equivalent energy needs
of 5,000 homes.
Back-up power and steam are guaranteed if primary supplies are interrupted or fail. In
addition, electricity can be exported and/or imported to the national grid via the 11 kv
substation which is linked to the CHP system.
F6 LANDFILL SITE OPERATIONS EFFECTIVELY CONTROLLED

BY LOW COST BEST PRACTICABLE MEANS
F6.1 Backgr ound
The operators of a mineral extraction quarry located in a rural environment, applied to the
Local Planning Authority for permission to import commercial and industrial waste for infill
and restoration purposes. During the planning process a number of noise sensitive receptors
were identified at adjacent farms and cottages.
Permission was granted subject to certain environmental controls which included control of
noise arising from infilling and compacting operations. A noise control and mitigation
scheme was required to enable planning conditions to be discharged.

An overview of the construction and waste infill operations at the site are illustrated in Figure
F6.1 below.
Figur e F6.1 Over view of Cell Constr uction and Waste Infill Oper ations at the Site
F6.2 Descr iption of Site
The 35 hectare site, formerly used for extraction of sand and gravel lies in an agricultural area
at distance from any large residential development. However, a number of farms and
cottages are situated within 300 metres of the site (refer to Figure F6.2 below). As a result,
ambient noise levels are low. The only significant noise sources in the area are those
associated with agricultural operations, the existing mineral extraction operations, and local
traffic.

Figur e F6.2 Map of the Site Showing Wor kings and Near by Noise Sensitive Receptor s
To ensure compliance with the planning conditions, an acoustic consultancy company was
approached and instructed to carry out a noise survey and modelling exercise, and to provide
recommendations for noise control and mitigation.
F6.3.1 Noise Sur vey
In order to establish the potential noise impact at nearby noise sensitive properties, an
environmental noise survey was conducted to identify existing background noise levels.
Noise measurements were taken over a period of 3 days in two areas representative of the
closest dwellings. Daytime background levels of 35 dB LA90 and 39 dB LA90 respectively,
were measured.

F6.3.2 Pr ediction of Noise Impact
Potential noise impacts were predicted by modelling the main elements of the landfill
operations, as detailed below:
· lorry movements to and from the site importing waste materials and tipping waste on
site;
· the excavation of clay for cell construction;
· cell construction by bulldozers and dumpers;
· waste compaction; and
· cell capping.
The basis of the prediction method used is described in British Standard (BS) 5228. This
method enables an hourly A-weighted Leq (the LAeq, 1 hour) to be calculated for each
operation or item of plant at varying distances and for varying proportions of the time.
Studies of similar operations and noise data for the types of vehicles to be used on site were
also utilised in the model, including that relating to:
· haul routes;
· distances and speeds travelled by on-site vehicles;
· the number of hourly tipping operations;
· areas of work and progression of that work;
· topography of the site and the level of workings;
· the duration of each operation;
· the type and number of vehicles used on the site; and
· noise levels for each type of vehicle, as Sound Power Levels, or Sound Pressure
Levels at a determined distance.
The Planning Authority required that operations should be carried out in accordance with
current Minerals Planning Guidance, in particular MPG 1 and MPG 11: which refer to the use
of mineral extraction sites for waste disposal, and give advice for the control of noise at such
sites. MPG 11 recommends that noise from site operations should not exceed 55 dB LAeq 1hr
at noise sensitive receptors, or where the background noise level is below 45 dB LA90, that
site noise should not be greater than 10 dB LAeq above the existing background noise level.
Noise limiting criteria of 45 dB LAeq and 49 dB LAeq respectively, were determined based
upon these recommendations and measured background noise levels. Predicted operational
noise levels of 49 dB LAeq 1 hr and 57 dB LAeq 1 hr at each receptor were also determined,
indicating that background noise levels would be exceeded by 4 dB LAeq and 8 dB LAeq
respectively. As a result, significant noise control measures were required. Infill and
restoration operations were expected to continue for around 10 years, so any noise control
schemes needed to be durable and capable of being maintained at low cost.
F6.3.3 Identification of Individual noise sour ces
A number of noise sources, and in particular those associated with on site vehicle movements
were identified as detailed below in Table F6.1.

Table F6.1 Identification of Individual Noise Sour ces
Site Oper ation Noise Level at 10 metr es dB (A)
Road vehicles delivering waste (measured during 76
drive-by)
Excavator removing clay 77
Dump trucks transporting clay and soil 80
Bulldozers/dumpers constructing cells 83
Levelling and capping 77
Compactors traversing waste cells 77
Soil screening 70
Diesel water extraction pump 70
The most significant noise sources were those associated with the use of bulldozers and
dumpers, which would be required to operate throughout much of the day. Cell construction
activities utilising this type of equipment are illustrated below in Figure F6.3.
Figur e F6.3 Cell Constr uction with Dumper and Bulldozer

F6.4 Noise Contr ol and Mitigation
Two methods of noise control were utilised:
· screening through the use earth bunds and natural features; and
· operational restrictions.
F6.4.1 Scr eening
Calculations based on initial modelling indicated that a 5 metre high earth mound or bund,
which visually screened the noise sensitive receptors from the site, would reduce noise levels
by around 6 dB(A).
Two bunds were constructed of soil removed from the site for cell construction, one along the
southern boundary of the site and one along the western boundary (illustrated in Figure F6.4
below). During construction, noise levels at the two receptors occasionally reached levels of
70 dB(A) for short periods. Noise impacts arising from the construction of bunds in this way
is identified in MPG 11, which also points out the necessity to construct bunds. As a result,
an agreement was reached with the Planning Authority regarding the exceedance of noise
limiting criteria, whilst bund construction took place.
Soil screening and grading plant and the diesel powered water extraction pump were located
as far away from noise sensitive properties as possible, and additional screening provided
through the construction of soil mounds.
Figur e F6.4 Typical Ear th Bund

F6.4.2 Oper ational r estr ictions
As far as possible, site traffic was directed away from noise sensitive receptors on main
roads. Vehicles entering the site were directed along specially constructed haul routes which
were aligned such that they were out of site of noise sensitive receptors. The condition of the
haul routes was maintained to reduce noise arising from body crash of empty trucks leaving
the site.
All earth-moving equipment was required to comply with a maximum sound power emission
of 108 LwA in accordance with BS 6812 / ISO 6395 ‘Airborne noise emitted by earth-moving
equipment’. In addition, the following recommendations were made:
· all equipment to be switched off or idled when not operating and engines not revved
unnecessarily; and
· equipment to be maintained in good condition (including silencers) to minimise noise
emission during operation.
F6.4.3 Oper ating Times
To ensure that disturbance did not occur during unsociable hours ie in the evening and at
weekends, landfill operations were limited to between 0730 and 1900 Monday to Friday and
0700 to 1300 on Saturday. No working was permitted on Sundays or Bank Holidays. Soil
replacement and capping operations, which take place at elevated levels were restricted to
between 0800 and 1700 Mondays to Fridays.
F6.4.4 Audible War ning Devices
Further planning conditions related to the use of audible reversing alarms or warning devices,
which should not be used except where agreed with the Planning Authority.
F6.4.5 Other Noise Mitigating Measur es
In order to minimise the noise impact of the proposed operation as a whole, a number of
additional, more general measures were identified:
· sub-contractors to use equipment which complies with EC Directive noise emission

limits;
· equipment to be maintained in good working order;
· engines to be switched-off or left in idle when not in use;
· access hatches and engine door panels on the plant to be kept closed as far as possible;
and
· regular monitoring of noise levels to be carried out.
The predicted noise impact at the two reference noise sensitive receptors, after construction
of the earth bunds along the site boundaries, was estimated at 38 dB LAeq 1hr and 48 dB LAeq 1
hr respectively. At the former site, the predicted noise impact was some 7 dB(A) below the
noise limiting criterion, but exceeded existing background noise level by 3 dB.

At the second location, the predicted noise impact approached the noise limiting criterion of
49 dB LAeq but was still within prescribed limits. Here noise from landfill operations would
be apparent but at a level which was considered to be acceptable to local residents. In
addition, other local sources of background noise would serve to mask site noise at certain
times of the day.
The noise controls used at this landfill site were low cost or no cost options. Construction of
bunds using topsoil and overburden enabled the use of material, which would otherwise be
transported from the site or dumped elsewhere, for noise screening, thus saving the cost of
acoustic fencing at around £150/linear metre at 1999 prices.
Regular maintenance of haul routes and plant also benefits the efficiency and reliability of
equipment, which may otherwise be subject to costly repairs and overhauls. Switching off
engines when not in use can also provide significant fuel savings.
The costs incurred in the noise control scheme included fees for the noise survey and noise
modelling of approximately £1,500, and man hours and fuel costs for bund building.
However, the costs of bund construction were equal to those associated with the removal of
the bund material from the site, which would have been required with or without the noise
control operations.
During bund construction noise levels from the site were significantly higher than the
existing background noise levels at noise sensitive receptors. However, in light of this
unavoidable noise impact, the Local Planning Authority allowed noise limiting criteria to be
exceeded for a maximum duration of eight weeks for soil/overburden removal and bund
construction.

Best Available Techniques For Control of Noise & Vibration

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Best Available Techniques for Contr ol of Noise &

Tel: 01454 624400 Fax: 01454 624409

© Environment Agency 2001 November 2001

ISBN 1 857 05722 8

Resear ch Contr actor

Envir onment Agency’s Pr oject Manager

R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1

· an introduction to the effects of noise;

· use of inherently quiet processes

R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1 i

R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1 ii

2 REVIEW OF NOISE AND VIBRATION ASSESSMENT METHODS 3

3 BEST AVAILABLE TECHNIQUES FOR NOISE CONTROL 16

4 COSTS, BENEFITS AND IMPLICATIONS OF NOISE CONTROL 25

APPENDIX A GLOSSARY OF ACOUSTICS TERMINOLOGY 35

R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1 iii

Environmental Resources Management (ERM) were commissioned by the Environment

1.2 Backgr ound

EC and UK environmental legislation has generally applied to separate aspects of the

R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1 1

1.4 Str uctur e of This Repor t

The remainder of this report is structured as follows:

Section 2 provides an introduction to the effects of noise, describes measurement

Section 3 summarises the Best Available Techniques for noise control;

Section 5 summarises the case studies.

Appendix A is a glossary of acoustics terminology;

Appendix B gives technical advice on noise measurement and calculations;

Appendix C gives forms for recording noise measurements;

Appendix D gives a review of relevant guidance material;

Appendix E contains 11 noise control information sheets; and

Appendix F gives full accounts of the case studies.

R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1 2

2.2 The Effects of Noise

R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1 3

8 Other health effects

Figur e 2.1 Cause and Effect Relationships for Noise

A distinction is made between disturbance and annoyance. Someone is disturbed by noise

R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1 4

2.3.1 Noise Measur ement Equipment

Figur e 2.2 A Statistical Sound Level Meter

R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1 5

R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1 6

Vibration measurements are unlikely to be required in the majority of environmental

However, equipment is available to carry out measurements in cases where vibration is

2.3.3 Measur ement Techniques

Clearly when investigating a complaint of excessive noise, measurements should be taken at

R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1 7

· measurements should be taken between 1.2 to 1.5 m above the ground;

R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1 8

R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1 9

2.4 Pr ediction of Noise

2.4.1 Why Ar e Pr edictions Necessar y?

Noise predictions are useful in two main situations:

2.4.2 How Ar e Noise Pr edictions Car r ied Out?

· ISO 9613 Part 1 /Part 2 (9)

R&D TECHNICAL REPORT P4-079/TR/1 10

2.4.3 Advantages and Disadvantages of Noise Pr edictions

Table 2.1 Advantages and Disadvantages of Pr ediction

Strategic Focuses effort on important sources