The document was produced by the Department of Transport in 1995 and provides the method of calculating (and measuring) railway traffic noise levels for new and altered railways. The document is referred to as the method of assessment to be used in the Noise Insulation (Railways) Regulations. However, the calculation method can also used for carrying out railway noise assessments for planning purposes.

The calculation takes in to account the generation of noise from rail traffic by the various sources such as rail/wheel interface and diesel power sources.  The screening effects of any barriers, buildings and ground contours are assessed along with distance attenuation.  Finally any reflection effects are considered, and the combined noise level at a given point is calculated for all the different train types passing the receptor.