SZ introduces first national standards for managing noise

Shenzhen residents can breathe a sigh of relief as the city has recently released the first-ever national technical specifications aimed at managing noise. 

This initiative comes in response to growing concerns about disruptive sounds in urban environments, including incessant promotional noises on pedestrian streets, the hum of rooftop cooling towers, and the clamor of local farmers' markets.

The new regulations outline comprehensive management requirements designed to guide noise emitters in implementing effective noise reduction measures. 

The guidelines establish essential principles for defining responsibilities, scientifically planning noise management strategies, regulating business operations, and taking measures to prevent noise pollution, thereby enhancing the overall noise management system in the city.

Among the specific requirements, the regulations propose detailed site layout considerations regarding operational structures, passageway settings, auxiliary parking areas, and zones for unloading and waste collection. 

By clarifying the noise pollution prevention responsibilities of construction units, operating units, business operators, and customers, the regulations ensure that responsible parties remain accountable and actively work to reduce noise impacts at their source.

To tackle the significant disturbances caused by advertising and unloading operations, the guidelines impose restrictions on amplifier power levels and recommend strategic placement and orientation for sound equipment. 

Specific usage times are outlined, and operators are urged to maintain proper site leveling and utilize low-noise tools wherever possible.

Additional noise control measures include equipment selection, minimizing noise transmission paths, utilizing horn reminders, and implementing noise monitoring systems. 

The regulations encourage collaborative efforts among operating units to resolve any noise-related issues.

The guidelines also address fixed equipment such as cooling towers, fans, and air conditioning units, which are vital for commercial venues.

Management requirements concerning these fixed devices have been established for shopping malls, office buildings, hotels, and restaurants, focusing on five key areas: location layout, design selection, noise reduction measures, installation acceptance, and ongoing operational maintenance.

This approach aims to create a comprehensive noise control chain that includes all aspects of fixed equipment management.

The regulations also mandate noise impact assessments prior to equipment installation and advocate for the effective use of topographical conditions, sound source, and overall layout measures to enhance noise reduction efforts.