Construction noise is one of the most common complaints from communities near building sites. Section 61 of the Control of Pollution Act 1974 allows local authorities to impose conditions on noisy work. Breaching these conditions can result in fines and injunctions that halt work entirely. This talk explains how operatives can help manage noise and maintain good relations with neighbours.
Key Hazards
Enforcement action and work stoppage from noise limit breaches
Noise-induced hearing loss in workers from prolonged exposure
Community complaints leading to restrictive working conditions
Vibration damage to neighbouring buildings from impact equipment
Control Measures
Comply with all Section 61 consent conditions including permitted working hours and noise limits.
Use the quietest available plant and equipment suitable for the task being carried out.
Fit silencers and acoustic enclosures to generators, compressors, and other fixed plant.
Schedule the noisiest activities during the least sensitive times agreed with the local authority.
Erect acoustic barriers or hoarding at the site boundary nearest to sensitive receptors.
Switch off plant and equipment when not in active use rather than leaving it idling.
Monitor noise levels at the site boundary using calibrated sound level meters.
Brief all operatives on the permitted working hours and noise control requirements.
Maintain a complaints log and respond to community concerns promptly and courteously.
Remember
Always comply with the permitted working hours specified in the Section 61 consent
Use the quietest available plant and equipment suitable for each task
Switch off plant when not in use rather than leaving engines idling on site
Monitor noise levels at the boundary and respond immediately to any exceedance
Treat all community complaints seriously and report them to the site manager promptly
Applicable Legislation: Control of Pollution Act 1974 (Section 61) · Environmental Protection Act 1990 · Noise at Work Regulations 2005 · BS 5228-1:2009+A1:2014