WITH most Covid-19 restrictions being lifted on Monday, citizens are reminded to keep the noise level down.
The advisory came from the Environmental Management Authority (EMA).
In a press release on Thursday, the EMA warned that persons could be charged if their noise volume was above the required decibel level stating that noise complaint was the number one type of complaint received.
The EMA stated that in general areas from Monday to Sunday during the hours of 8 am to 8 pm, the sound pressure level when measured as the equivalent continuous sound pressure level should not be more than five dBA (A-weighted decibels) above the background sound pressure level.
The sound pressure level when measured as instantaneous unweighted peak, sound pressure level shall not exceed 120 db.
No person shall emit or cause to be emitted any sound that causes the sound pressure level to exceed 80 dBA.
From 8 pm to 8am, the sound pressure level should not exceed 3dBA above the background sound pressure level and should not exceed 115 db when measured as instantaneous unweighted peak.
For industrial areas, the EMA stated that the sound pressure level should not exceed 75 dBA.
The EMA is advising persons to apply for a noise variation permit, if the planned activity may generate noise that will exceed the permissible sound level for the area.
This may include parties, fetes and sports days using sound-amplifying equipment.
“The Authority maintains its stance that an all-of-society approach is required to fight the scourge of noise pollution and is thus making an appeal to fete promoters, event organisers, bar owners and the general public to be responsible, civic-minded, and cognizant of the damaging effects of noise pollution,” the EMA stated.
