Feature Article
Environmental Responsibility - Noise
As part of being a "good neighbour", King’s Cross Central is continually trying to reduce construction noise. To this end we have taken special steps to control and monitor noise.
When any task is undertaken on the site a method statement is produced on how the work is to be carried out and part of this statement includes environmental issues such as noise. If the activity is likely to be noisy, then the relevant equipment is chosen to reduce the noise level, such as ‘vibrating’, rather than ‘percussion’, pile drivers.
There are static and mobile noise monitors to measure the noise levels coming from the construction activity. Three static monitors constantly record noise levels. These can be accessed remotely at any time. Mobile monitoring takes place regularly each month at different places around the site and if any noisy activity is planned this is also independently monitored.
Using the analysis of sample data collected to date, this form of reporting was agreed with LB Camden’s Environmental Health Department in February 2009. It was agreed that a response protocol would be appropriate in the event of any enquiries from local residents. If noise levels exceed 77 dB LAeq, 1hr the source of the noise will be investigated and noted for review by King’s Cross Central and LB Camden.
Where the noise exceeding 77 dB LAeq, 1hr is attributable to construction activity on site, and enquiries are made by the public with respect to that excess, action will be taken to minimize the noise.
