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The mining and processing of minerals is an important part of the economic development of the country. Minerals can only be extracted where they exist and often these locations are in rural areas with low background noise levels. This can give rise to concerns about noise from proposed and existing mineral sites. Hepworth Acoustics has considerable experience of dealing with the noise issues at the planning stage of deep and surface mines and quarries. The experience includes predicting future noise levels, designing mitigation measures and representing clients through the planning process and at Public Inquiry if required. In addition, the company can advise and carry out compliance monitoring of working sites, which is often not straight forward, because noise limits may be set very close to existing background noise levels.
 Noise predictions for future minerals sites are carried out using the basic calculation methodology from British Standard 5228: Noise and vibration control on construction and open sites (BS 5228). The predictions are carried out using a software package, and allow the effect of bunds, barriers and soft ground attenuation to be assessed. The results of the predictions are assessed using the procedures contained in Minerals Policy Statement 2 (2005): controlling and Mitigating the Environmental Effects of Minerals Extraction in England, Annex 2: Noise (MPS 2).
The approach of Hepworth Acoustics is to work with the minerals operator to develop a site working methodology that allows the site to proceed whilst maintaining acceptable noise levels at nearby noise sensitive premises. We understand the working methods for mineral sites, the options for noise control and the best ways to accurately predict the noise levels generated. This builds on previous research carried out by the company on source noise levels and prediction accuracy. This allows clients to fully answer concerns regarding potential noise impact and to be able to discharge the relevant planning conditions.
Click here to read about our work for UK Coal.
Read more about the DEFRA work. Link (External)
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