NOISE is becoming an increasingly prevalent nuisance in our society and is pervading our homes, businesses, public and private transportation and public places. Noise is unwanted sound, and because of this, it is considered pollution. It can block, distort, or change the meaning of a message in both human and electronic communication. Noise impacts negatively on human health and the environment.

Effects of noise
Constant exposure to noise can cause hearing loss, a condition that cannot be cured. There is much scientific evidence that associates noise with increased stress-related hypertension, aggressive behaviour and annoyance. Noise negatively affects concentration and communication.

Noise also affects wild animals by disrupting their normal activities, such as feeding and mating. They find it difficult to communicate in a noise-polluted environment, and so may miss warning signals of approaching predators or prey. These impacts reduce the ability of wild animals to sustain their population size, and, in the long-term, can result in the loss of species.

Noise Control and Regulation
The Environmental Protection Noise Management Regulations 2000, developed under the Environmental Protection Act of 1996, require that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulate activities that produce noise. The Regulations were developed to protect against Noise Pollution, and require persons engaging in specified activities to apply for Noise Permits.

The Regulations list certain categories in which permissible noise levels are to be fixed. Such permissible noise levels are for activities taking place in residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, educational, construction, transportation and recreational areas. The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), in an Interim Guideline, has set these limits for Noise Emission into the Environment. In residential areas, activities are permitted to generate noise not exceeding 55 decibels during the day, and 45 decibels at night. For activities in commercial areas, a maximum limit of 65 decibels during the day, and 55 decibels during the night is allowed. Noise limits allowed for activities in industrial areas are 75 decibels during the day, and 70 decibels at night.

During the first half of this year, the EPA received a number of applications for Noise Permits for both long and short-term noise emission. Several applications for long-term Noise Permits were received for Liquor Restaurants, Discos and Bars. Applications for short-term Noise Permits were for fund-raising activities such as Barbecues, Fairs and Fun Days, etc. The number of applications received for short-term Noise Permits increased in the period March to June, when several public holidays were being celebrated.

The EPA responds to noise nuisance based on complaints received. Upon receipt of a complaint, the EPA would conduct an investigation, and, based on the nature and validity, would provide recommendations for measures to be implemented to reduce the noise levels. The Agency would then monitor these activities to ensure that they comply with the established limits. In some instances, especially nuisances from music and small operations, the Agency would collaborate with the Police to address the problem. The Police, under the Police Act, can enforce penalties for defaulters in relation to noise nuisance from these sources and complaints of this nature are often referred to the nearest Police Station.

It is evident that more persons are becoming aware of the procedure, in relation to operating noise-making devices. This is encouraging, and the EPA is seeking to strengthen its relationship with relevant stakeholders to curb the noise issue. Already, it is a requirement that a Noise Permit be obtained from the EPA before a licence is issued for the operation of a business that would generate noise. Before a Noise Permit is granted, the EPA has to inspect the premises to ensure that it meets required standards, according to the Noise Management Regulations. A long-term Noise Permit is given for a maximum of one (1) year, after which it could be renewed.

Activities Requiring Noise Permits
Noise that emanates from the use of small household appliances and equipment, and from traffic, is considered background noise and is not regulated under the Noise Management Regulations. However, noise emissions from construction work, industrial processes, power tools and machinery especially in large-scale activities, are being regulated as these generate high levels of noise.

The most common type of noise-generating activities that are being regulated by the EPA include woodworking and furniture-making operations, and the operating of generators. Persons engaged in these activities are required to apply for a Noise Permit and to adhere to its terms and conditions. The EPA makes recommendations for noise mitigation in the use of noise-making equipment, tools and devices. Some of these measures include sound proofing, installation of mufflers and enclosures.

Construction activities are also required to obtain a Noise Permit before commencement of works. Depending on their location, the EPA may require that these activities stop during certain hours of the day.

There are restrictions on the operation of sound-making devices in public places and as such persons wishing to do so must apply for a Permit.

An application fee is charged for a Noise Permit in accordance with the Noise Management Regulations. A holder of a Noise Permit is also required to inform the EPA of any intention to increase noise emissions from the permitted activity and to obtain a letter of variance before proceeding with the change in noise generation.

Legal Proceedings
For an offence relating to noise disturbances, the EPA would issue a Prohibition Notice to the defaulter. Failure to heed a Notice would result in the offender being prosecuted. The accused must prove in court that the best practicable means had been used for preventing or counteracting the effects of the noise.

Defaulters on summary conviction of a noise related offence may be required to pay between $30, 000 and $175, 000 and can face up to one year imprisonment.

Remember, all persons have the right to complain to the EPA if disturbed by noise. Businesses can employ sound technology, implement good management practices and effect environmental tools to help protect Guyana’s environment and themselves.

You can also share your ideas and questions by sending your letters to: ‘Our Environment’, C/O EIT Division, Environmental Protection Agency, Lot 7 Broad & Charles Streets, Charlestown, Georgetown, or Email us at eit.epaguyana@gmail.com.