Helping the offshore energy industry combat noise pollution
Offshore energy operations are vital to Britain’s infrastructure – but just like their onshore alternatives, they have the potential to cause a noise nuisance. But while the press spotlight may be on their day-to-day operations and the effect on the environment, the human impact of noise pollution onshore and potential for hefty fines cannot be overlooked.
Constructing offshore drilling stations and wind farms is a mammoth task and their maintenance only further fuels the noise nightmare they can create. And that brings with it significant challenges for businesses looking to continue normal day-to-day operations. Echo Barrier products are the perfect solution in repair yards, stopping noise in its tracks.
What is the problem?
Energy operations are noisy. And that begins in the factories where parts are built, through to construction, day-to-day operations and repair. But while factories are typically stationed away from residential areas, the work of those looking to make swift onshore repairs is at the mercy of those living nearby their repair yards.
The heavy machinery required during repair poses a significant nuisance to local communities with sound travelling significant distances across open water and also especially to operators – with continued exposure to high levels of sound putting people at risk of both cardiovascular and mental health problems.
Given repair yards are seldom far from coastal communities, and often surrounded by them, the problem becomes even greater.
Why should my business be concerned?
All businesses have their role to lay in combatting noise pollution. That includes those building offshore sites, working in repair yards or those engaging in day-to-day operations, and whether you are in the middle of the North Sea or Northumberland.
Repair yards and construction sites are subject to the Environmental Protection Act 1990 – meaning those in breach of noise limits can be subject to noise abatement notices should locals complain, which if ignored can lead to a shutdown of operations.
But it isn’t just the risk of fines stemming from local residents’ complaints that should alarm contractors. The possibility of breaching regulations remains high, with site managers required to take action should their staff regularly be exposed to sound higher than 85dB.
At sea, pile driving during construction is among the biggest offenders in terms of noise pollution, with each drive creating both high levels of sound and shockwaves sent across the ocean floor.
The peak level of permitted sound under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 is 135dB – perilously close to the potential noise emitted through pile driving.
Both oil rig and wind farm managers are responsible for safety and keeping their operations on the right side of the law – and that’s an area ever-changing.
Some governments have already started acting on offshore noise pollution. This includes noise abatement measures for offshore windfarms in Germany and other countries engaging in North Sea operations.
In the UK, it is an offence to kill, injure or disturb marine European Protected Species in UK waters and this is something every offshore energy oil rig or wind farm manager needs to be aware of when it comes to the effects of noise pollution.
How can Echo Barrier help?
Echo Barrier was founded by a team of world-leading acoustic experts looking to support businesses around the world through noise abatement.
We take noise pollution seriously, no matter the source. Not only because strict regulations pose threats to our clients’ operations – but because it risks the health and wellbeing of all of us and our planet.
Numerous energy businesses have turned to us for help in combatting noise pollution on their properties – and our expert team of acoustic engineers tailor a solution fit for their needs.
Using Echo Barrier helps keep workers and the public safe, significantly reducing the chances of local authority fines, shutdowns and permanent health effects.
Our easy-to-install barriers significantly reduce noise on repair sites by absorbing sound – and can also be placed on rigs to protect workers from noise, especially to prevent them being kept awake by sound between shifts.
Like with all our products, these barriers are designed with ease of use in mind. They are both compact and lightweight and simple to install both individually, or in groupings to create a vertical acoustic wall.
Their lightweight and flexible composition is especially important when considering transportation to offshore sites, with each barrier easily stored while taking up minimal space and weight on board a ship.
Businesses requiring noise abatement assistance – be they contractors or site managers – should contact our friendly team here