Assessment of nuisance from industrial sites (BS 4142)

Harrison Environmental Consulting has conducted numerous noise surveys in accordance with BS4142: 1997 method for rating industrial noise affecting mixed residential and industrial areas.

This method has been successfully applied to food processing and industrial facilities to comply with regulatory requirements. Clients have included Banham Poultry, Pinguin Foods, Moy Park and Bowes of Norfolk.

The survey designs, noise measurements and reports were conducted according to the appropriate technical requirements and submitted to the respective Local Authorities and Environment Agency for approval.

In all cases preliminary site walkovers were undertaken to assess noise sources and potential sensitive receptors prior to monitoring. All noise surveys were designed and conducted in accordance with the principles detailed in British Standard BS4142 including location, timing, duration and frequency. Ambient noise at the facility boundary in all cases was measured and used to assess facility specific noise including tonal characteristics.

Background noise was measured at locations similar to the conditions at the site perimeter and receptor locations, but far enough away from the site to negate the effects if its own audible noise contribution. Readings were taken during day and night times on weekdays and, if required, during weekends, so that the full weekly cycle could be analysed.

LA90 noise measurements were compared to source noise levels measured in LAeq measurements. In addition, the 1:3 octave measurements for tonal analysis at relevant sensitive receptors were identified for evaluation of nuisance and complaints in response to Local Authority requirements.