In 1995 we started work with an acoustic company to develop the use of digital tape recording to monitor noise. We then went one step further and constructed a sound laboratory where the nuisance noise could be played back to the noisemaker before action was taken.
Our system has developed over several years but for others thinking of setting up a scheme, here are the essential elements.
Prepare a policy
Establish a database to report on the numbers of noise complaints and where they are located. Software systems can then be used later to track officer actions and prepare standard letters and notices.
Set out your aims and the level of service provision. It is also a good idea to consult with your customers and decide on your service delivery standards.
A typical system would include sending letters to both the complainant and perpetrator when the complaint first begins and include standard advice and noise diaries for the complainant.
A sufficient number of noise-monitoring units need to be available so that those customers who send back noise diaries do not experience long delays in having a monitoring unit fitted. 2000 complaints a year will require six systems to be available. These can then record noise for up to 72-hour placements each. This means the waiting time for the equipment is approximately two weeks.
Select a monitoring system
You will need a monitoring system that contains a digital tape recorder in a lockable case that has the appropriate controls. It will also need a type 1 sound level meter to report sound levels in decibels, ensuring high-quality evidence for court proceedings. An advantage of these systems is that you can provide cover 24 hours a day, seven days a week in a resident's home without an officer present.
Write a detailed procedure setting out how you will deliver the service. It will also serve as a reference point to train new members of staff. This is particularly important because noise-monitoring technology is high-tech and not all the team will have formal acoustic training.
Ensure staff competency
It is not essential that all staff have formal acoustic training but those who are making decisions about statutory noise nuisance should have an appropriate qualification from the Institute of Acoustics.
You should also contact and develop working protocols between environmental health officers, estates managers, police and antisocial behaviour teams in order to make the crackdown on nuisance behaviour more effective.
Design a studio
Design a suitable noise studio or listening room where noisemakers can be invited in to listen to tape recordings of their noise. You will need a high-quality hi-fi system and a digital tape recorder for your desk station. It is also advisable to have a PC in the studio with software that can turn your sound level meter results into graphical displays so that these can be used to show the sound pressure levels that are causing the problem. When designing the room its acoustic properties should be similar to a typical domestic living room.
Costs
A variety of costs will need to be taken into consideration, including staff. For example, 2000 complaints a year will require approximately four full-time officers, six noise-monitoring systems, a computer database, the construction of or modification of a noise studio, and enforcement and court costs.
Source
Housing Today
Postscript
David Craven is principal environmental health officer at Doncaster council.
n Institute of Acoustics: 01727 848195
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