November 2004 (PDF 11.6 MB) - Barrick Gold Corporation

4. Compare the measured noise level with theproject-specific noise levels.5. Where the project-specific noise levels areexceeded, assess feasible and reasonablenoise mitigation strategies.6. Negotiation between the regulator and thenoise source manager to agree to achievablenoise limits for the site. (This may involveconsultation with the community.) Regulatoryauthorities and the noise-source managerneed to consider the technical practicalitiesand cost of noise-reduction measures,along with the environmental consequencesof exceeding the project-specific noise levels.7. Measures to achieve the limits by specifieddates may be set out in a noise reductionprogram.8. Monitor compliance with the noise reductionprogram, and review and amend the programas required.An example showing how this process works iscontained in Section A4 of Appendix A.10.2 Noise reduction programsThe noise reduction program is reached throughagreement between proponent and regulator andwill typically have a statutory basis through conditionson a licence or notice. It will document theactions required to achieve the noise limits. Themeasures will generally be source- and site-specific,but could include the following elements:• training and awareness initiatives• an ongoing monitoring program to evaluatenoise-emission levels• communicating with the affected communityvia one or more of a complaints handlingprocess, liaison group, newsletters etc.10.3 Noise-reduction strategies forexisting sitesOften the range of planning instruments that can beapplied to existing sites is limited. For example,planning approaches (for example, spatial separationbetween source and receiver and attention tonoise reduction in designs for residential andindustrial buildings) that could avoid impacts aregenerally not available at this stage. Operationalprocedures and immediate cost-effective measuresthat can minimise noise with minimal impact on thenoise source should be identified and implemented.The applicability, effectiveness and cost of particularmitigation measures often depends strongly onsite variables. Section 7 provides advice on a rangeof typical mitigation strategies, and is a useful guidein deciding suitable mitigation measures for aparticular site.• the aim and scope of the program• identification of noise levels and targets forthe site• an upper limit for new equipment• an upper limit for partial upgrades of the site• plans to eliminate problematic characteristicsthat have been identified, such as tonal andlow frequency noise• a sound power limit for relevant sections ofthe site• operating practices to reduce noise emissionsNSW industrial noise policy50