Banks Developments use Cirrus Equipment to monitor noise at Shotton Surface Mine

Work began at the new mine in June 2008. To ensure that environmental noise does not exceed agreed limits, Banks is using Cirrus CR:700 series and CR:800 series outdoor noise monitoring kits for routine noise monitoring. This is part of a continued effort by Banks, under its policy of “Development with Care”, which aims to forge good relationships with local communities by minimising the impact at its operations.

Mark Dowdall, Environment & Community Director of Banks Developments commented:

“We have used Cirrus equipment since 1991 to monitor noise from our developments to ensure that we protect both local communities and our workforce from the effects of noise, and so far have used Cirrus equipment on over 50 similar developments.”

He continued…

“With environmental noise projects like these, it is important that the data we get is accurate and easy to record. Cirrus equipment allows us to do this, and provides excellent software that enables us to present and analyse results. The company also offers good after sales service and support and calibrate our equipment regularly, so that we can always be sure that environmental noise is controlled to an acceptable level.”

“We have also used Cirrus equipment to monitor occupational noise exposure, and have a selection of Cirrus sound level meters and doseBadge noise dosemeters that are used to measure noise levels of plant and machinery at source, to effectively determine the noise protection equipment we provide to our workers.”

James Tingay of Cirrus Research explained:

“Excessive noise levels can have a negative impact on people's quality of life, causing effects ranging from mild annoyance to serious health problems such as stress, sleepless nights and heart disease.”

“Our message is simple. To tackle the issue of noise you need to measure it. By making continuous long-term measurements, noise trends can be identified and the impact of particular noise sources on the background noise climate can be assessed. By using noise measurement equipment from the Cirrus range, companies can be sure they comply with all relevant noise regulations and fulfil their duties as responsible neighbours and employers.