Noise pollution
Noise — how it affects our lives
What is noise?
Safe levels of noise
Problems caused by noise
Most annoying noises
Avoiding common noise sources
Noise laws
Solving noise problems
Your role
More information
What is noise?
Noise is unwanted sound — barking dogs, loud music, passing traffic. Studies
show that over 40 percent of Australians are disturbed at home or lose sleep
because of noise pollution.
Everyone reacts differently to noise. What can be unbearable for one person may pass almost unnoticed by another. How annoyed we become depends on the loudness, time, place and frequency of noise. Distinct features of noise, such as screeches or rumbles, are also important.
Noise is measured on the decibel scale. Noise levels, referred to as decibels on the (A) scale (written as dB(A)) are a good indicator of people’s response to noise.
The fact sheets on Queensland's nuisance laws has more detailed information.
Safe levels of noise
State government regulations state that our maximum daily noise dose should
be no more than the equivalent of 85dB(A) for eight hours a day. Permanent hearing
damage is likely to occur if this daily dose is exceeded repeatedly.
Problems caused by noise
Annoyance
When we think, talk, relax, listen to music or sleep we need quiet. Even
relatively low levels of noise can cause annoyance and frustration. Sudden increases
in volume and tone makes sounds annoying — the reason why sirens are so
penetrating. A quieter background can make noise more intrusive.
Natural sounds are generally less annoying than ones we think unnecessary or controllable. Intermittent sounds such as a tap dripping on a quiet night can be more disturbing than the sound of falling rain.
Speech interference
Noise can interfere with speech. When the background noise level is 50dB(A),
normal conversation can be easily carried with someone up to 1m away. Any more
than that and problems will arise.
Sleep interference
Noise can wake people from sleep and keep them awake. Even if not actually woken,
a person’s sleep pattern can be disturbed, resulting in a reduced feeling
of well-being the next day.
Decreased work performance
As noise levels increase, our ability to concentrate and work efficiently and
accurately reduces. Louder noise bursts can be more disruptive. Noise is more
likely to reduce the accuracy of the work than reduce the total quantity of
work done. Complex tasks are more likely to be impaired. Noise can also make
instructions or warnings unclear, resulting in accidents.
Hearing loss
Prolonged exposure to noise levels above 85dB(A) can damage inner ear cells
and lead to hearing loss. At first, hearing loss is usually temporary and recovery
takes place over a few days. After further exposure, a person may not fully
recover their initial level of hearing — irreversible damage will have
been done, causing deafness. The extent of deafness depends on the degree of
exposure and individual susceptibility. Even brief exposure to very high levels
of 130dB(A) or more can cause instant, irreversible hearing damage.
Most annoying noises
The Brisbane Noise Survey (1989) showed that traffic, aircraft and barking dogs
annoyed people most. Radio and television, garbage trucks and noise from neighbours
also ranked high in the survey.
Avoiding common noise sources
Traffic
If looking for a quieter place to live, avoid areas near major roads, bus routes
and intersections. Traffic from shopping centres and sporting facilities can
also cause problems. Hilly traffic routes can be noisy due to gear changes and
acceleration. Valleys and dips are generally noisier than flat, open land. Before
choosing a property, it’s wise to check with your local government to find
out where any new roads or freeways are planned.
Barking dogs
Dog owners have a responsibility to make sure their dogs don’t cause annoyance.
Local government can adopt local laws allowing action to be taken against owners
whose barking dogs disturb others.
Aircraft
Before choosing a property, it’s wise to check aircraft operations with
the local airport.
Neighbours
Being a thoughtful neighbour means ensuring noise in your household doesn’t
annoy other people. Sometimes it’s the timing of noise that creates the
problem. Lawnmowers can disrupt sleep or rest if operated early in the morning.
The most convenient time to mow is usually late morning or late afternoon. If
in doubt, have a word with your neighbour about the most convenient time to
mow.
Swimming and spa pool equipment
Regulations prescribe what‘s acceptable noise on neighbouring premises.
Ask your local council or Environmental Protection Agency office for advice.
Air-conditioners
Should be positioned to prevent disturbance to neighbours. Check noise levels
before buying and seek advice on location from your installer.
Stereos, television, radios and power tools
Should be used with thought for your neighbours’ comfort.
Rural areas
Don’t have the same range and number of noise sources as cities and towns.
However, sources such as quarries, boarding kennels and poultry farms can affect
surrounding land for a considerable distance. Before buying or renting, check
what’s permitted under the Town/Shire plan and always look for existing
sources of noise.
Noise laws
Noise in the environment is controlled through the Environmental Protection Act 1994,
the Environmental Protection (Noise) Policy 1997 and local government
laws.
Solving noise problems
Many noise problems can be prevented by considering others and talking through
problems. If you feel you need help approaching neighbours about noise problems,
or difficulties arise when you do, consider contacting the Community Justice
Program. This Queensland Government initiative provides trained mediators to
help sort disputes. Phone (07) 3239 6007 or 1800 017 288 toll-free.
Your role
Household noise
Open, light house construction is suitable for Queensland’s climate
but allows noise and vibration to enter and travel between rooms. Noise from
outside sources can be reduced by keeping windows closed or having windows double
glazed.
These options are generally not appropriate in warmer climates, so sound barriers such as solid front fences may be useful alternatives.
Outside noise
Before you choose a place to live, visit at different times of the day to
check for noise. Good planning by local government will prevent residential
areas being subjected to noisy industry, commercial developments and through
traffic. Older residential areas may have long-standing problems.
More information
Environmental Protection Agency
160 Ann Street
PO Box 15155
CITY EAST QLD 4002
Ph: (07) 3227 8186
Last updated: 02 November 2005
