Page 27 - Gi flipbook June/July 2018

Some examples of sound maps

MAPPING NOISE LEVELS noise levels can be simulated, it allows according to project size, geography
Mitigating noise (and other potentially you to work with ‘what-if scenarios’ and objective, but most importantly,
harmful emissions) doesn’t have to be prior to building. This could mean on the data available and how readily
a case of trial and error or result in positioning equipment differently, or it can be acquired and imported for
expensive retrofits. With modern setting up conveyor equipment in a use in the noise map.
noise mapping software, a situation different place, for example.
– whether existing or still in the Noise maps don’t need to be created SAFEGUARDING YOUR
planning stage – can be examined and by someone with a degree in acoustics, OPERATION
modelled so that mitigation is carried cartography or engineering either. The Once you’ve created a noise map, you
out in the most effective manner. software is designed to be user friendly can introduce controls to start
Noise sources can vary widely in and the output maps are color-coded protecting workers against the
sound power, emitted frequency so they are easily understandable by problem noise. Using the maps,
spectra, directivity and also in their everyone. Some versions will allow the mitigation measures such as replacing
timings, so if it is accurately identified creation of 3D or animated maps to turbine equipment with quieter models
and mapped, it can be mitigated, and really help display the effect of noise. for example, can be tested and the
workers’ exposure reduced. The best are adaptable and accessible, noise contour line established. It takes
Modelling goes a step further than for instance linking to Google Maps or a reduction of just a few decibels to
simply measuring noise levels as it can other systems to overlay terrain or significantly lessen the risk of hearing
identify different sources and levels, infrastructure at the location as well. loss and the many other health issues
and it can show how that sound Software maps can also be used for excessive noise causes. ■
travels. Crucially, you can’t measure specialist purposes, such as the
what isn’t there, so modelling plays a positioning of turbines, as they show ■ SoundPLAN is a world-leading
vital hypothetical role in planning how noise will move in different noise mapping software
future manufacturing sites or places industrial and environmental manufacturer. For more information
where turbines will be in use. When situations. Each noise map is unique visit www.soundplan.com

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