Noise Action Week 2017

NOISE Action Week 2017 takes place around the UK from May 22-26, when the spotlight falls on environmental health teams and the work that they do.

In Carmarthenshire a small team of officers, qualified in the field of acoustics and noise control, deal with around 850 – 900 noise complaints every year.

Most common complaints include barking dogs, loud music and anti-social behaviour, and building activities, as well as noise from as pubs, clubs, and commercial or industrial processes.

When complaints are made, and following the completion of a paper or electronic diary log sheet, the team may make arrangements for an assessment, usually collecting evidence through sound monitoring or visits in person, and speaking to neighbours.

It’s always the aim to resolve matters through discussion and advice where this is possible, but if a statutory noise nuisance is identified, officers can then take action under s.79 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

Some common sources of noise though cannot be dealt with under legislation, including children playing, traffic noise on public roads, people arguing or shouting, or someone using their own property in a normal way – such as using a washing machine, flushing their toilet, or walking up and down their stairs.

This year, NAW focuses on live music venues.

Officers will be undertaking a series of planned visits to various public houses in Carmarthenshire to ensure that licensees are aware of their responsibilities and what, in particular the effect of noise from poorly managed beer gardens can have on residents living nearby.