Noise Abatement
Domestic Noise accounted for 82% of all noise related complaints to district councils in Northern Ireland between April 2008 and March 2009. It is somewhat fortunate that noise from the specific sources within this category can be reduced by individuals simply altering their behaviour and being more considerate towards their neighbours. For instance, music and televisions can be kept to acceptable levels and parties can be kept inside to reduce the impact on neighbours. DIY consisting of loud drilling or hammering could be undertaken only during daytime and animal owners, particularly dog owners, can seek advice on how to control unnecessary barking. For information regarding barking dogs, please refer to the Department of the Environment website http://www.doeni.gov.uk/index/protect_the_environment/local_environmental_issues/noise.htm
Methods of reducing noise from industrial sources include adaptation of processes, modification of machinery or redesign of the factory/premises to reduce the escape of noise. As regards agricultural noise, the loudest activities could be undertaken only during week days when most individuals are at school or work.
Techniques to reduce noise from commercial and leisure premises are limited as many of the activities occur outdoors, such as car washes, petrol stations, sport matches or hot food vans. Bars, restaurants or nightclubs playing music can install sound insulation, but this will not prevent noise from outdoor venues, such a beer gardens or open air smoking areas. Noise from such premises is generally controlled by the imposition of licensing conditions on the venue by the local council when the venue’s licence is granted.
Construction, demolition and road works are by their very nature noise producing activities. The equipment used and techniques involved can generate very high levels of noise. Control of the noise is often difficult due to the temporary nature of the operations and the pressure to complete projects on time to minimise disruption. While it is possible to fit some of the apparatus with silencers, the reduction in noise generated is often insignificant.
Transport noise has already been reduced in recent decades. Techniques such as the use of silencers are already in use at the vehicle design stage and airport operators control noise by limiting the types of aircraft using the airport. Good vehicle, track and road/runway maintenance, as well as the implementation of speed limits can reduce transport noise. Other steps including the construction of noise barriers and the adoption of low noise tyres and road surfaces can also be taken to reduce transport noise further.
One of solutions often adopted to reduce transport noise is to move the noise to a less populated area, using a diversion away form schools and residential areas. The location of airports or military bases could be confined to rural areas with lower population densities.
It is impossible to eliminate all sources of noise. A degree of noise will always be produced by, for instance, retail and restaurants as individuals speak to one another and delivery vehicles must deliver stock or produce. However, it is reasonable to limit certain activities such as deliveries or ice cream chimes to certain time periods.
In addition to measures aimed at reducing the amount of noise generated, it is possible to reduce the amount of noise to which an individual is subjected. This can be done by road or rail diversions away from areas of high population density, planning developments so that noise insensitive buildings shield noise sensitive buildings, construction of noise barriers alongside noise sources or restricted airport operating hours.