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Module 9

Uploaded by

rashidulmirza2003
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
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Module 9

Noise Pollution Control


Noise Pollution Control focuses on minimizing the harmful effects of excessive noise on human health and the
environment. Noise pollution can result from sources such as traffic, industrial activities, construction, and household
appliances. Effective control of noise pollution involves understanding regulatory standards, using engineering and
administrative controls, and raising public awareness.

Noise Standards and Limits;


Noise standards set permissible noise levels for different environments and times of the day to protect public health
and maintain environmental quality. Regulatory bodies in various countries, such as the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) in the United States and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in India, establish these
standards.
Typical Noise Level Standards (Decibel Levels)
 Residential Areas:
o Daytime: 50–55 dB (decibels)

o Nighttime: 40–45 dB

 Commercial Areas:
o Daytime: 60–65 dB

o Nighttime: 50–55 dB

 Industrial Areas:
o Daytime: 75–80 dB

o Nighttime: 70–75 dB

 Silent Zones (e.g., near hospitals, schools):


o Daytime: 50 dB

o Nighttime: 40 dB

These standards vary by country, but the general principle is to restrict noise levels based on the sensitivity of the area,
with stricter limits for residential and silent zones compared to commercial and industrial areas.

Methods of Noise Pollution Control


Noise control methods can be classified into source control, path control, and receiver control, each addressing
different aspects of noise reduction.
1. Source Control
Reducing noise at its source is often the most effective approach. This method involves modifying equipment or
processes to limit noise production.
 Regular Maintenance: Keeping machinery and equipment well-maintained can reduce noise from wear,
friction, or malfunctions.
 Use of Low-Noise Machinery: Using machinery specifically designed to operate quietly can significantly
reduce noise in industries.
 Modifying Operational Processes: For example, switching from mechanical to hydraulic systems, or from
hammering to pressing in industrial settings, can lower noise.
 Traffic Management: Limiting heavy vehicle access to certain areas and enforcing speed limits can reduce
traffic noise.
2. Path Control
Path control involves blocking or reducing the noise that travels from the source to the receiver.
 Sound Barriers: Walls, fences, and earth berms can be erected between the noise source and sensitive areas
(e.g., highways near residential areas).
 Acoustic Insulation: Buildings can be insulated with materials like acoustic panels, double-pane windows,
and thick curtains to prevent noise from entering.
 Planting Vegetation: Trees and shrubs act as natural sound barriers, reducing noise levels, especially near
highways and industrial areas.
 Soundproof Enclosures: Equipment and machinery can be enclosed in soundproof rooms or cabinets, which
contain noise within the enclosure.
3. Receiver Control
If noise cannot be controlled at the source or along its path, receiver control is the last line of defense. This method
involves using protective equipment or structural modifications to minimize exposure for individuals.
 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Earplugs and earmuffs are commonly used in industrial settings to
protect workers from high noise levels.
 Time Management: Limiting the time workers spend in high-noise areas can reduce exposure and prevent
hearing loss.
 Education and Training: Training workers on the use of PPE and awareness of noise hazards can help
minimize the risk of hearing damage.
Additional Approaches to Noise Pollution Control
1. Urban Planning and Zoning:
o Separate residential areas from industrial zones to minimize exposure to industrial noise. Zoning laws
can limit noisy activities in sensitive areas.
2. Quiet Zones and Curfews:
o Designate "quiet zones" around hospitals, schools, and residential areas, with strict restrictions on
noise levels, especially during nighttime hours.
o Implement curfews to limit activities like construction, transportation, and entertainment in specific
areas during late-night hours.
3. Public Awareness and Noise Monitoring:
o Educating the public on the effects of noise pollution and encouraging quieter lifestyle choices can
have a positive impact.
o Establish noise monitoring programs to enforce compliance with noise standards and identify high-
risk areas for noise pollution.
Benefits of Noise Pollution Control
 Health Protection: Reduces the risk of hearing loss, stress, sleep disturbances, and cardiovascular issues
related to chronic noise exposure.
 Improved Quality of Life: Decreased noise enhances comfort in residential areas, promoting better sleep and
overall well-being.
 Environmental Conservation: Protects wildlife, as excessive noise disrupts animal communication,
breeding, and habitat use.

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