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EU seeks penalties for noisy operators

12th December 1996
Page 19
Page 19, 12th December 1996 — EU seeks penalties for noisy operators
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Which of the following most accurately describes the problem?

• In its latest green paper on noise policy, the European Commission is proposing that noisy trucks should face tax penalties. It is also evaluating a complex charging system designed to encourage transport operators to buy quieter vehicles. What with trucks leaving early in the morning and returning late at night, refrigeration units whining away and the racket sometimes generated by service workshops, hauliers' depots aren't always gentle on the ears. And local authority environmental health officers have the power to act if that row—and any vibration—becomes a serious nuisance to the local neighbourhood. They can do so under the • Environmental Protection Act 1990, or the • Noise and Statutory Nuisance Act 1993. The latter, for example, allows them to take action against a haulier who causes noise pollution by perpetually leaving his vehicles parked outside the depot with the engine idling and the refrigeration unit running. A third piece of legislation, the • Noise Act 1996, is primarily designed to combat noise emanating from domestic premises. After receiving a complaint, the environmental health officers will gather information on the extent of the nuisance and may ask the complainant to keep a diary of when the alleged noise occurs, and how long it lasts. If they are satisfied the complaint is justified, the officers will carry out tests using monitoring equipment. "In general terms, a 10dB(A) or more difference between the background noise level and the noise being made is enough for us to take matters further," says Robert Enticott, an environmental health officer with Bristol City Council.

Initially the authority will try to resolve any dispute informally. Then it may serve an abatement notice instructing the business to curtail the nuisance. If this fails, the authority can begin court proceedings.

Potentially this could lead to a maximum £20,000 fine, a maximum two-year prison sentence, or both, says Enticott. Hauliers who have had housing spring up around them cannot argue that they were there first.

Also, applications to vary an existing Operator's Licence could be blocked if you have been successfully prosecuted for noise. So beware.

A more expensive alternative to ing is a bond—an earth bank whit be topped by fencing and law. Hedges and fast-growing trees hay effect Fit air brake hush kits and u slung refrigeration units to vehicles

Furter help is available fro Association of Noise Consultants (1 852958), which can provide a to hensive list of members and their of expertise. They include Tim Acoustics (01275 848229) and Environmental (0181 573 7744).


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