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Noise Assessment

Oil and gas, power generation and mining facilities typically operate with equipment that generates significant noise, which could negatively impact surrounding facilities and residences. Such facilities and their associated infrastructure are often heavily regulated and require the completion of a noise assessment (often known as a Noise Impact Assessment or an NIA) as part of their application approval process.

Noise assessments are technical reports that predict and identify major facility noise sources and any impacts to surrounding residences or communities. An NIA can be completed for new projects, expansion of existing facilities or in response to a complaint. Completion of a noise assessment in early development stages typically results in less regulatory and financial risk once a project is operational, as uncertainties are established at the start, minimizing or avoiding future surprises.

1. SoundComply

Don’t know where to start? Start with SoundComply. It’s the first step in assessing noise-related risk for an energy and resources facility. SoundComply is a free, interactive online tool that helps oil and gas facilities understand their noise risk by analyzing facility noise sources in relation to adjacent facilities and residences, and provides guidance on the best type of noise assessment. Read more about SoundComply and assess your facility noise risk for free!

2. Screening Noise Impact Assessment

Fully integrated with SoundComply, Patching Associates provides a Screening Noise Impact Assessment (NIA) for facilities that are typically smaller with less noise-related risk or situated in remote areas without adjacent facilities or nearby dwellings. Facilities in such circumstances can complete an online assessment and receive an application-ready report for a minimal investment. This online noise assessment is completed theoretically using our extensive database of equipment measurements, supported by publicly-sourced information.

By entering information about your facility, noise generating equipment and nearby residences or adjacent facilities, SoundComply can help determine noise risk and whether your facility qualifies for a Screening NIA. If your facility achieves a passing grade, Patching Associates offers an engineered-stamped report that can be submitted to regulators to demonstrate compliance. Check out SoundComply to see if your facility is eligible.

3. Detailed Noise Impact Assessment

As projects increase in complexity, more robust noise assessments involving detailed measurements and noise modelling are required. Projects involving multiple stakeholders or those located in sensitive areas where there’s a chance that a formal complaint may be filed, typically fall into this category. These NIAs are best completed using high-detailed measurements to confirm the scope of work, the unique surroundings of the location, the stakeholders involved and to capture operating scenarios. This process significantly increases model accuracy and assists in predicting long term facility planning.