Language: 
SgurrEnergy has carried out NIAs for more than 19 wind farms representing over a GW of capacity. Click wind farm noise impact assessment to view our latest case study carrying out NIA using Galion Lidar.
We have also conducted NIAs for many other projects such as electricity generating stations (both nuclear and conventional) and electricity transmission and distribution systems. We have particular expertise in substation noise and have carried out numerous substation NIAs for key clients.
Noise produced by industrial plant is also subject to Pollution Prevention and Control (PPC) legislation. PPC noise surveys have been carried out at a variety of power stations.
NIAs are an important part of the planning process for other developments, including residential.
Some NIAs can be straightforward, while others can be much more complex. In a recent case, SgurrEnergy prepared an NIA for a proposed housing estate in Craigneuk near Wishaw. The development area was a triangle bounded by the main west coast rail line, a busy industrial estate and a main arterial road. The impacts of these three noise sources were assessed independently, and noise mitigation measures were designed. The development was granted planning permission.
Objections to planning applications can come from the most unlikely sources. SgurrEnergy recently dealt with a case in south-west Scotland where a tradesman, who had set up his workshop in an area set aside for light industry, objected to a nearby proposed residential development: he feared that future residents might object to noise from his premises. We conducted a noise survey and advised the developer on appropriate palliative measures to mitigate the risk of excessive noise.
The legal duties of employers and employees with respect to noise and vibration have become significantly more onerous in recent years.
Where an employee is likely to be exposed to noise at or above certain limits, a competent person must make a Noise Risk Assessment (NRA).
SgurrEnergy can provide personnel competent to conduct such NRAs, and have conducted several for a number of different places of work, including several different types of power station and factories such as a wind turbine manufacturing works and an iron works.
The impact of current and planned industrial activity on neighbours is carefully monitored and is an important part of the planning process. We conduct Noise Impact Assessments in accordance with recognised criteria.
In the case of wind farms, the criteria are laid down in ETSU guidelines. ETSU guidelines are specific to wind turbines.
For other installations, a variety of criteria may be cited by local environmental health departments, including:
SgurrEnergy engineers are well-versed in all of these and can also offer expert witness service.
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
© SgurrEnergy Ltd. Registered Office 225 Bath Street Glasgow G2 4GZ. Tel.: +44 (0)141 227 1700
Registered in Scotland No. 245814 Vat No. GB 797 0474 85
