MALONE O REGAN March 2016 Powerstown Landfill Industrial Emission Licence No. W0025-04 Annual Noise Survey 2015 2B Richview Office Park, Clonskeagh, Dublin 14. Tel: +353 01 2602655 Fax: +353 01 2602660 e-mail: enviro@morce.ie St. Catherine s House, Catherine Street, Waterford. Tel: +353 51 876855 Fax :+353 51 876828 e-mail: info@waterford.morce.ie 13, Mill Street, Galway. Tel: +353 91 531069 Fax :+353 91 531084 e-mail: info@morce.ie
Carlow County Council March 2016 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report Carlow County Council Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report March 2016 Table of Contents Pg. No. 1 INTRODUCTION... 1 1.1 Site Compliance Criteria... 1 1.2 Description of Activities at the Facility... 1 2 METHODOLOGY... 3 2.1 Monitoring Locations... 3 2.2 Measurement... 5 2.3 Equipment... 5 2.4 Weather Conditions... 5 3 RESULTS... 7 4 DISCUSSION... 11 4.1 Monitoring Location N4... 11 4.1.1 Tones and Impulsiveness Sources... 11 4.2 Monitoring Location N5... 11 4.2.1 Tones and Impulses... 12 4.3 Monitoring Location N6... 12 4.3.1 Tones and Impulses... 12 4.4 Monitoring Location S1... 12 4.4.1 Tones and Impulses... 13 4.5 Monitoring Location S2... 13 4.5.1 Tones and Impulses... 13 5 FREQUENCY ANALYSIS... 14 5.1 Objective Tonality Discussion... 14 6 COMPARISON WITH HISTORIC MONITORING... 14 7 CONCLUSIONS... 15 8 GLOSSARY OF TERMS... 16 Malone O Regan Table of Contents
Carlow County Council March 2016 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report Tables Table 1: Summary of Noise Monitoring Locations Table 2: Summary of Weather Conditions at Powerstown Landfill Met Mast. Table 3: Daytime Noise Levels (11 th December 2015) Table 4: Summary of Daytime Noise Measurements 2008-2015 (all expressed in db(a)) Figures Figure 1: Noise Monitoring Locations overlain on Google maps Aerial Photography Figure 2: Wind Speed Data for 10 December 2015 Appendices Appendix A Appendix B Appendix C Appendix D NG4 Checklists for Noise Measurement Reports Monitoring Results, Charts and Plates Calibration Certificates for Noise Monitoring Equipment Hourly Meteorological Charts from Johnstown Castle Malone O Regan Table of Contents
Carlow County Council March 2016 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report 1 Introduction In accordance with the requirements of Condition 6.15 (shown below) of Industrial Emissions Licence (IEL) Register No. W0025-04 issued by the EPA, the annual noise survey was conducted at the Carlow County Council, Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre (the Facility) by Malone O Regan (MOR) on Thursday 10 th December 2015. Condition 6.15 Noise: The licensee shall carry out a noise survey of the site operations annually. The survey programme shall be undertaken in accordance with the methodology specified in the Guidance Note for Noise: Licence Applications, Surveys and Assessments in Relation to Scheduled Activities (NG4) as published by the Agency. The purpose of the annual noise survey is to evaluate noise emissions from the Facility at the nearest noise sensitive receptors, to compare the results with the previous monitoring event and licenced limit values, and to outline suitable mitigation measures where necessary. A glossary of terms used within this report are supplied in Section 8 of this report. 1.1 Site Compliance Criteria Schedule B3 of the Facilities IEL gives daytime, evening time and night time noise limits at any noise sensitive locations in the vicinity of the Facility as follows: Day time (07:00 19:00 hrs) L ART30 min = 55dB(A) Evening time (19:00-23:00) L ART 30 min = 50dB(A) Night time (23:00 07:00 hrs) L Aeq 15-30 min = 45dB(A) Schedule B3 also states that there should be no clearly audible tonal component, or impulsive component in the noise emissions from the activity at any noise-sensitive location during the night time period. In further qualifying the license conditions, the EPA Guidance Note for Noise: Licence Applications Surveys and Assessments in Relation to Scheduled Activities (NG4), released in 2012 specifies that during the day and evening periods rigorous efforts should be made to avoid clearly audible tones and impulsive noise at all sensitive locations and that a penalty of +5dB for tonal and/or impulsive elements is to be applied to the measured L Aeq,T values to determine the appropriate rating level (L Ar,T). It is a requirement of NG4 that the noise survey and reporting be conducted by a competent person. NG4 outlines the minimum criterion for a competent person (NG4 Section 2) as: All competent persons must possess a combination of technical knowledge, experience and skills, and must be able to demonstrate both practical and theoretical competence and should participate in continual professional development. Competence may be demonstrated through reference to an appropriate qualification, and/or professional membership of a recognised acoustic organisation and/or appropriate experience. NG4 guidance was followed in the development, conducting and reporting of the noise survey for the Facility in 2015. The competency of the acoustician are given in Section 2.2 of this report. 1.2 Description of Activities at the Facility The Facility operates as a non-hazardous waste landfill and a civic amenity waste facility, licenced by the EPA to accept 40,000 to 50,000 tonnes per annum. Malone O Regan 1
Carlow County Council March 2016 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report The Facility is licenced under Condition 1.8 to operate between the hours of: 07:00 to 18:30 Monday to Friday; and, 07:00 to 13:30 on Saturdays. The Civic Amenity area is licenced to operate additionally on: Sundays 08:00 to 12:30. Carlow County Council currently operates the facility on a daily basis Wednesday to Saturday. The opening hours to the public and deliveries are: Monday: Closed; Tuesday: Closed; Wednesday: 08:30am to 16:00pm; Thursday: 08:30 to 16:00; Friday: 08:30 to 16:00; Saturday: 08:30 to 12:30; Sundays & Bank Holidays: Closed. The Facility only operates during the daytime period and therefore noise monitoring only occurs during the daytime period. Typically, operations on a landfill and civic amenity facility may include audible off-site noise, arising from the following activities: Vehicles movements in/out of the facility; Excavators operations; Facility personnel vehicle movements on site; Activities at facility weighbridge; and, Unloading of material from trailer units. Malone O Regan 2
Carlow County Council March 2016 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report 2 Methodology All monitoring was conducted in line with best practice as outlined in NG4. Appendix A outlines the EPA NG4 Monitoring Checklist for the assessment and reporting for this project. 2.1 Monitoring Locations Locations for noise monitoring are stipulated within IEL No. W0025-04, Schedule C1.1. Table 1 below describes each of the monitoring locations and these are illustrated in Figure 1. Table 1: Summary of Noise Monitoring Locations Monitoring Point N4 N5 N6 S1 S2 Description of Location Located within the Landfill access road off the R448 (northwest of the facility) Front yard of a single story dwelling located adjacent the Civic Amenity entrance (off the L3045 local road). Lawn of two story dwelling house, located east of the Railway line. Located adjacent the R448, near the entrance to a log cabin residence (opposite access gates to the Landfill from the R448). Located outside the locked gates into a (disused) residence, south of the landfill, on the L3045 local road. The monitoring locations are either Noise Sensitive Locations (NSLs) or deemed suitable proxy location for NSLs in their vicinity. All monitoring locations are comparable with historic monitoring positions at the Facility. Malone O Regan 3
Carlow County Council March 2016 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report Figure 1: Noise Monitoring Locations overlain on Google maps Aerial Photography Malone O Regan 4
Carlow County Council March 2016 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report Appendix B contains the plates for each of the monitoring locations showing the sound level meter set up at each monitoring location. The Facility is located within a predominately agricultural setting, with major traffic routes including the R448 (road designation for sections of the old National Road N9, which are bypassed by the new motorway), and the M9 Dublin to Waterford motorway. The River Barrow is located approximately 500m to the southwest. The local landscape is undulating, with existing and closed extraction pits present. The largest operational business in the locality is the Kilcarraig Quarry operation at Milford (circa 180 meters to the south). 2.2 Measurement The methodology followed was in accordance with the recommendation of: ISO 1996-1:2003 Acoustics Description, measurement and assessment of environmental noise Part 1: Basic quantities and assessment procedures; ISO 1996-2:2007 Acoustics Description, measurement and assessment of environmental noise Part 2: Determination of environmental noise levels; and, EPA Guidance Note for Noise: Licence Applications, Surveys and Assessments in Relation to Scheduled Activities (NG4) 2012 (and associated Frequently Asked Questions update). In compliance with licence W0025-04 Schedule C.5, three measurements were taken at each daytime noise monitoring location. Licence W0025-04 Schedule B3 states 30 minute readings to be taken for daytime noise measurements. This is in-line with historic noise monitoring time durations at the Facility. In addition, real time 1/3 octave band frequency analysis was carried out at all noise monitoring locations for identification of tones. At all monitoring locations the noise meter was positioned to maximise distance from reflective surfaces and mounted on a tripod to an approximate height of 1.2 to 1.5 meters over ground level. The monitoring and analysis of the data was conducted by a senior MOR acoustician who is a full member of the Institute of Acoustics (MIOA), with over 10 years experience and is therefore deemed to be a competent person as per the criteria outlined within the NG4 document. 2.3 Equipment Noise measurements were carried out using a BRUEL & KJAER 2250 Hand-held Analyser Sound Level Meter (Type 1), equipped with Frequency Analysis Software BZ7223. The monitoring equipment was calibrated prior to and post the measurement period using a BRUEL & KJAER sound level calibrator type 4231. The noise levels were measured using the A-weighted network, and a fast sampling interval, unless otherwise stated. Laboratory calibration certificates for the BK 2250 sound level meter and the BK 4231 field calibrator are within Appendix C. 2.4 Weather Conditions Weather conditions on the 10 th December were dry and cold. Wind speeds were calm to a light air (<3.0 m/s). Ground conditions were damp arising from rainfall over the previous days and night, though no precipitation occurred during the monitoring day. Cloud cover varied, with mostly high altitude (stratus) cloud on 40 to 60% cover. As per Section 7.6 of NG4, the prevailing weather conditions at the time of measurement Malone O Regan 5
00:30 01:30 02:30 03:30 04:30 05:30 06:30 07:30 08:30 09:30 10:30 11:30 12:30 13:30 14:30 15:30 16:30 17:30 18:30 19:30 20:30 21:30 22:30 23:30 Wind Speed (m/s) Carlow County Council March 2016 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report were noted and recorded in the survey report. A portable anemometer (Skywatch Explorer) was used to record wind speed before, during and after the noise survey periods. Onsite weather observations are supplemented by the meteorological mast operating at the Facility, with data shown in Table 2 below. Table 2: Summary of Weather Conditions at Facility Met Mast. 10.12.15 Wind Speed (m/s) Wind Direction Wind Run Hi Wind Speed (m/s) Hi Wind Speed Direction Atmospheric Pressure Rainfall High 6.30 SW 11.27 10.70 SW 1020.10 0.00 Average 3.09 SW 5.55 5.99 SW 1018.40 0.00 Low 0.90 S 1.61 2.20 S 1017.00 0.00 30 minute data generated by meteorological mast at the Facility are shown in Appendix D, these graphs show the weather conditions at the facility for the day of the monitoring event. Figure 2 shows the wind speed data obtained from the Facility meteorological station, with the duration of the noise monitoring event marked. During the monitoring event wind speeds were below an average of 4 m/s and therefore suitable for noise monitoring. Powersown Landfill Met Station Wind Report 7 6 Noise Monitoring 5 4 3 2 1 0 Time (10 December 2015) Figure 2: Wind Speed Data for 10 December 2015 Malone O Regan 6
Carlow County Council March 2016 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report 3 Results Table 3 outlines the monitoring results for the daytime monitoring events and describes the predominant noise sources at each location. Table 4 outlines the monitoring results for the daytime monitoring events for the period 2008-2015 for comparison purposes. Statistical analysis and 1/3 octave charts are supplied in Appendix B to this report. Malone O Regan 7
Carlow County Council March 2016 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report Table 3: Daytime Noise Levels (10 th December 2015) Location N4 N5 N6 Start Time L Aeq, 30 mins (db) L A10, 30 mins (db) L A90, 30 mins (db) L AF max (db) 13:28 57 60 51 69 14:08 58 61 53 67 14:38 58 61 52 68 08:30 52 53 48 73 09:00 51 51 47 75 09:31 52 51 46 78 10:06 49 48 42 68 10:36 49 49 44 69 11:07 49 49 44 73 Description of Noise Sources Facility: Works reported as on-going during the monitoring periods, including lunch time, but were not audible at this monitoring location. Ambient: Traffic movements on the R448 the primary source of noise. Occasional birdsong audible within nearby trees. Motorway traffic particularly Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) on the round-about controlled access/egress points audible at times. Wind speed 1.2-3.0 meters per second (m/s) from south. Facility: truck and vehicle movements into the facility audible when occurring. Ambient: aggregate screening activities audible to the south relatively steady sound source. Birds singing in the trees and hammering in the distance occasionally audible. Passing local traffic: 08:30-09:00: 8 vehicles; 09:00-09:30: 6 vehicles; 09:30-10:00: 10 vehicles Wind speed light (0.8-2.0 m/s) from the south. Facility: Occasional metallic sounding noise as tipping occurs. Occasional movement of the excavators on site. Ambient: Birdsong in the hedges. Dogs barking in distance, traffic noise occasionally audible in the distance. Alarms and plant activity to the southwest a steady aspect of the local acoustic environment. Peak events associated with passing of vehicles on the local road. Train passing on the line (marker 5 on the time history chart. Passing traffic: 10:06-10:36: 10 vehicles; 10:36-11:06: 11 vehicles; 11:07-11:37: 15 vehicles Wind speed calm to light air (0 to 2.0 m/s, from south). Malone O Regan 8
Carlow County Council March 2016 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report Location S1 S2 Start Time L Aeq, 30 mins (db) L A10, 30 mins (db) L A90, 30 mins (db) L AF max (db) 15:14 71 75 60 85 15:44 71 75 61 81 16:14 72 75 61 80 11:49 68 62 51 93 12:19 67 61 51 92 12:50 65 61 49 89 Description of Noise Sources Facility: Operational but no activities audible. Ambient: Road traffic on the R448 relatively constant in both directions. Motorway traffic also audible as a steady source (distant). Occasional jumps, particularly by HGVs, as vehicles move onto the M9 bridge. Passing traffic: 15:20 15:25: 67 vehicles (10.5% HGV) 15:45 15:55: 133 vehicles (8.3% HGV) Wind speed calm to light air (0.2-3 m/s from south). Facility: Operational but no activities audible at this monitoring location. Ambient: Screening plant audible in the distance as a relatively steady sound, occasional reversing alarms also audible from the same location. Birdsong in nearby trees, R448 traffic audible as relatively constant sound source. Passing traffic peak local event. Passing Traffic: 11:49-12:19: 28 vehicles; 12:19-12:49: 23 vehicles; 12:50 13:20: 22 vehicles. Wind speed calm to light air (< 3.0 m/s from south). Table 4: Summary of Daytime Noise Measurements 2008-2015 (all expressed in db(a)) Location Year S1 Ave S2 Ave N4 Ave N5 Ave N6 Ave L Aeq 30mins 2008 64 64 57 57 63 63 50 50 53 53 2009 65 65 63 63 54 54 53 53 47 47 2010 68 68 61 61 50 50 53 53 49 49 2011 69 69 66 66 58 58 55 55 55 55 2012 68 68 50 50 54 54 61 61 49 49 2013 71 71 59 59 66 66 51 51 53 53 2014 68 68 64 64 60 60 51 51 49 49 2015 72 71 72 72 68 67 65 67 57 58 58 58 52 51 52 52 49 49 49 49 Malone O Regan 9
Carlow County Council March 2016 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report Location Year S1 Ave S2 Ave N4 Ave N5 Ave N6 Ave L A10 30mins 2008 65 65 60 60 57 57 53 53 45 45 2009 68 68 61 61 57 57 48 48 45 45 2010 73 73 61 61 53 53 50 50 49 49 2011 73 73 64 64 62 62 54 54 55 55 2012 71 71 50 50 54 54 50 50 42 42 2013 75 75 59 59 64 64 51 51 52 52 2014 72 72 59 59 64 64 49 49 48 48 2015 75 75 75 75 62 61 61 61 60 61 61 61 53 51 51 52 48 49 49 49 L A90 30mins 2008 51 51 51 51 44 44 46 46 34 34 2009 54 54 53 53 45 45 37 37 36 36 2010 49 49 47 47 44 44 42 42 42 42 2011 56 56 51 51 51 51 47 47 47 47 2012 53 53 45 45 45 45 39 39 31 31 2013 59 59 49 49 52 52 45 45 45 45 2014 58 58 47 47 53 53 43 43 42 42 2015 60 61 61 61 51 51 49 50 51 53 52 52 48 47 46 47 43 44 44 44 *Highest recorded average value for each monitoring parameter at each monitoring location is denoted in bold Malone O Regan 10
Carlow County Council March 2016 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report 4 Discussion The general area in which the Facility is located could be described as rural in nature, however the development of the M9 and the presence of the R448 (previously the N9) road infrastructure results in high volumes of traffic noise. NG4 chapter 7.9, states that the L AF90,T index may be used to give a good indication of the actual noise output from the site, where the noise emission on site are relatively steady and extraneous noise may unduly influence the measured L Aeq,T. The following paragraphs identify where the use of the L AF90,T index has been determined as relevant for compliance purposes during this survey. Additionally noise can also arise from the local roads, agricultural activities and quarrying and associated screening works as evidenced in the current noise survey commentary. The paragraphs below describe the receiving noise environment at the five designated monitoring locations during the 2015 annual noise survey. 4.1 Monitoring Location N4 This monitoring location is positioned within the landfill area, adjacent the entrance off the R448 road (refer to Figure 1). During the three measurements, activities within the Facility were not audible. Locally it is noted that the main activities within the Facility are obscured by the high grassed embankment. The primary sound audible at the monitoring location is the movement of vehicles on the R448, and, to a lesser extent, the movement of traffic both on the M9 and at the on/off ramp to the M9. L Aeq(30 minute) ranged from 57 to 58 with the consistency of the traffic showing little variation over the measurement periods. The L A90(30 minute) were lower at 51-53 db. Site specific noise was not a contributor to the soundscape at this monitoring location and therefore activities on site are deemed to be significantly (3dB or more) lower than the L A90 at this monitoring location. Monitoring location N4 is therefore in compliance with the emission limit values for daytime noise. 4.1.1 Tones and Impulsiveness Sources No tonal noise associated with activities arising from the Facility was subjectively audible at this location during the monitoring events. Therefore the L Ar,30minute value for each monitoring location is unchanged from the measured L Aeq,30minute values. 4.2 Monitoring Location N5 This monitoring location is situated outside a single storey dwelling house adjacent the Facility access road off the L3045. This is currently the primary access point for wastes entering the facility and vehicles departing the facility. The sound level meter was established in the front yard of the dwelling, approximately 20meters from the road. The dwelling was not occupied during the date of the site visit, so no local residential influences were noted. The primary noise sources recorded at this location were attributed to passing traffic on the local road (L3045). The movement of machinery and operation of a screening plant at a quarry to the south of the Facility was a noted local ambient noise feature. Activities arising from the Facility were audible at times, particularly the movement of trucks in/out and when trailers were emptied. The L Aeq(30 minute) for this measurement location varied little, from 51 to 52dB. The L A90(30 minute) was similarly steady across all three measurements, with results of 46 to 48dB. Malone O Regan 11
Carlow County Council March 2016 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report The site specific noise was a minor influence to the overall soundscape at this monitoring location, and therefore it is attributed to be similar to the L A90 values. Monitoring location N5 is therefore in compliance with the emission limit values for daytime noise. 4.2.1 Tones and Impulses No tonal noise associated with activities arising from the Facility was subjectively audible at this location during the monitoring events. Therefore the L Ar,30minute value for each monitoring location is unchanged from the measured L Aeq,30minute values. 4.3 Monitoring Location N6 This monitoring location is located outside a two-storey dwelling positioned to the east of the Facility, refer to Figure 1. The sound level meter was placed on the front lawn facing the Facility. The dwelling was not occupied during the date of the site visit, so no local residential influences were noted. The primary noise impacting the soundscape at this monitoring location was the movement of traffic on the local road (L3045), with occasional train movements recorded during two monitoring events. The activities at a quarry to the southwest were occasionally audible, though to a lesser extent than road traffic. Site specific noise events were typically not audible. Though during the second measurement the movement of excavator units at the Facility were audible for a short duration. The L Aeq(30 minute) for N6 were static at 49dB for all three measurements. The L A90(30 minutes) varies slightly with a range of 42 to 44dB. Although site specific noise was audible for a short duration of the three measurements, the L A90 is deemed representative of site noise at this monitoring location. Monitoring location N6 is therefore in compliance with the emission limit values for daytime noise. 4.3.1 Tones and Impulses No tonal noise associated with activities arising from the Facility was subjectively audible at this location during the monitoring events. Therefore the L Ar,(30minute) value for each monitoring location is unchanged from the measured L Aeq,30minute values. 4.4 Monitoring Location S1 This monitoring location is situated adjacent the west lane of the R448 (old N9) west of the Facility (refer to Figure 1). The sound level meter was established south of a log cabin at the entrance gate to a field. The primary noise impacting the local soundscape was traffic noise. Traffic noise was mostly attributable to traffic on the R448, arising from the close proximity to, and the volume of, passing traffic. To a lesser extent, the movement of traffic on the M9 to the west and south was audible as a background feature. A repetitive thud noise audible during the measurements was sourced to the movement of vehicles on the M9 as the road surfaced changed as it moved from solid ground to a bridge. This was particularly noted during the passage of heavy goods vehicles onto the bridge. Site specific noise was not audible at this monitoring location during any of the measurement periods. L Aeq(30 minute) measurements were similar for all measurement periods varying from 71 to 72dB. The L A90 (30 minute) varied from 60 to 61dB. The local soundscape was dominated by traffic noise. Site specific noise was not audible at this monitoring location, and therefore noise levels were significantly lower than the L A90 values. In Malone O Regan 12
Carlow County Council March 2016 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report the absence of any noted site specific noise audible at S1 during the survey periods, compliance with the noise emission limit values is achieved. 4.4.1 Tones and Impulses No tonal noise associated with activities arising from the Facility was subjectively audible at this location during the monitoring events. Therefore the L Ar,30minute value for each monitoring location is unchanged from the measured L Aeq,30minute values. 4.5 Monitoring Location S2 This monitoring location is located on the local road between the current Facility entrance and the R448 (refer to Figure 1). The sound level meter was positioned on the gated entrance to a two-story dwelling. The dwelling was unoccupied during the date of the survey and therefore no residential influences to the sound recording were noted. The primary source of noise at this monitoring location was the movement of traffic on the local road (L3045), arising both from the volume of traffic and the proximity of passing traffic, to the sound level meter. Occasionally activities at a quarry to the south were noted, particularly associated with the activities at the screening plant. L Aeq(30 minute) measurements varied from 65 to 68dB, influenced strongly by the passage of vehicles on the local road. The L A90 (30 minute) were significantly lower at 49 to 51dB than the recorded L Aeq values. Site specific noise was not audible at this monitoring location and is therefore deemed to be lower than the L A90 values. Monitoring location S2 is therefore compliance with the daytime noise emission limit value. 4.5.1 Tones and Impulses No tonal noise associated with activities arising from the Facility was subjectively audible at this location during the monitoring events. Therefore the L Ar,30minute value for each monitoring location is unchanged from the measured L Aeq,30minute values. Malone O Regan 13
Carlow County Council March 2016 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report 5 Frequency Analysis Frequency analysis was conducted at each monitoring location. The frequency spectra recorded at each of the monitoring events are attached in Appendix B. Subjective tonality of audible noise from the Facility is discussed for each monitoring location in Section 4 of this report. Tones were objectively assessed in accordance with Annex D of ISO 1996-2:2007(E). The standard states that for a prominent, discrete tone to be identified as present, the time-average sound pressure level in the one-third octave band of interest is required to exceed the time-average sound pressure levels of both adjacent one-third-octave bands by some constant level difference. The standard gives the level differences as follows: 15dB in the low-frequency one-third-octave bands (25Hz to 125 Hz); 8dB in the middle-frequency bands (160Hz to 400Hz); and, 5dB in high-frequency bands (500Hz to 10,000Hz). 5.1 Objective Tonality Discussion No objective tones utilising the approved survey method were identified at any of the monitoring locations during this monitoring event. 6 Comparison with Historic Monitoring Noise monitoring data, as supplied within the Annual Environmental Reports (AERs) for the Facility, are available from 2008. Prior to 2015, the Facility conducted noise monitoring on the EPAs NG1 and later NG2 noise guidance documents. Both of these have now been replaced by NG4. The primary reporting difference with reference to NG4 is the use of repeated monitoring events at each monitoring location, which increases the statistical accuracy of the monitoring data. For comparison purposes the average of the three monitoring events conducted at each monitoring location in 2015 are compared to the historic data. All results are shown in Table 4. The 2015 results show a slight elevation over historic trends at monitoring locations S1 and S2, with values at N4, N5 and N6 within historic trends. The elevation at S1 and S2 is attributed to a general increase in road traffic movements, with these two monitoring locations positioned in close proximity to the regional (R448) infrastructure. Background levels (L A90) for S1 and N5 were above historic trends, S2, N4 and N6 were all within historic trend values. S1, arising from the consistent movement of traffic on the adjacent R448, resulted in an impact on background noise values at this monitoring location. N5, located to the east of the Facility recorded an overall low background noise level (L A90(30minutes))average of 47dB, which is the same as the value recorded in 2011 and similar to other historic values. The review of the historic trends shows that the noise levels recorded in 2015 are broadly in line with these trends, though a general rise in road traffic, particularly on the R448, is impacting values at some locations. Overall the change in monitoring methodology has not shown a significant impact upon the noise results for the Facility. Malone O Regan 14
Carlow County Council March 2016 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report 7 Conclusions The survey results indicate that the facility is in compliance with the noise emission limit values of IEL Register No. W0025-04. The monitoring was conducted in line with the guidance of NG4. Monitoring results at two (2No.) monitoring locations, N5 and N6, recorded L Aeq(30 minute) values below the licence limit of 55dB. Monitoring results at an additional two (2 No.) locations, N4 and S2, noted site specific noise as a minor or not audible. At these monitoring locations the L A90 (30minute) values were below 55dB. These monitoring locations are therefore deemed to be in compliance with the IEL. Monitoring results at one (1 No.) locations, S1, noted high levels of noise for both L Aeq and L A90. S1 was positioned off the R448 and was exposed to relatively consistent traffic noise along this route. Site specific noise was not audible at this monitoring location at any point. Therefore all results were in compliance with the recommended emission limits of the IEL. No tonal or impulsive noise sources, attributable to activities or processes at the Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre were audible at any of the Noise Sensitive Locations. Overall, based on the findings of this noise survey, it is considered that no significant adverse noise impacts are likely to occur at the Noise Sensitive Locations as a result of the normal operations at the Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre. Malone O Regan 15
Carlow County Council March 2016 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Co. Carlow Annual Noise Monitoring Report 8 Glossary of Terms Daytime Identified within NG4 and the facility licence as the period of 07:00 hours to 19:00 hours (12 hours) for monitoring of noise. EPA The Environmental Protection Agency Evening Time Identified within NG4 and the facility licence as the period of 19:00 hours to 23:00 hours (4 hours) for monitoring of noise. Deemed a sensitive period for NSLs and typically controlled with lower noise limits for licenced activities. Frequency The division of a noise signal into its component frequency units, Spectra measured in Hertz (Hz). Typically measured in 1/3 octaves for environmental noise assessments. IEL Industrial Emissions Licence, issued and controlled by the EPA. L Aeq,T The continuous equivalent noise level, expressing the varying sound pressure recorded for a duration T as a single number. The value has been A-weighted (modification of 1/3 octave values) to increase correlation of the data to the human ear response. L AF90,T Noise level exceeded for 90% of the measurement period T, and A-weighted. A fast response time (F) of 125 milliseconds recordings L AR,T have been used by the sound level meter. The L AEq,T weighted to account for tonal or impulsive aspects of the facility specific noise source. Where tones or impulse noise is present the L Aeq, T value is increased by 5dB. NG4 The fourth noise guidance note by the EPA, issued 2012. Night time Identified within NG4 and the facility licence as the period of 23:00 hours to 07:00 hours (8 hours) for monitoring of noise. Deemed a sensitive period for NSLs and typically controlled with lower noise limits for licenced activities. NSL Soundscape Tones Noise Sensitive Location generally identified as any habitable premises or location where noise would be deemed a nuisance. Includes care facilities, public areas, residential areas and places of worship. A perceptual construct, related to a physical phenomenon. The standard (ISO 12913-1:2014) distinguishes the perceptual construct (soundscape) from the physical phenomenon (acoustic environment), and clarifies that soundscape exists through human perception of the acoustic environment. The presence of a discrete frequency within a noise signal, can be subjective (noted by the acoustician) or objective (identified by post processing of the noise signal). Malone O Regan 16
APPENDIX A
Appendix A Annual Noise Monitoring Report December 2015 Powerstown Landfill and Recycling Centre IEL Registration No. W0025-04 Table A.1: NG4 Checklist for Noise Measurement Reports Item Manufacturer, model type and serial number of the sound level meter, calibrator and microphone used for the annual survey. The type of windshield and other microphone attachments used. The date the equipment was last calibrated to a traceable standard. A statement of on-site calibration before and after the measurements. The frequency weighting networks and meter response time (i.e. fast or slow). A description of the measurement site and of the range of sound sources including the type of sound (continuous, intermittent, impulsive, tonal). Measures to exclude extraneous noise and reference to the methodologies followed throughout the survey. A map of the measurement site showing the location of the measurement positions. Photographs illustrating the positioning of the sound level meter (recommended but optional). Details of the intervening ground between sources and measurement positions and the presence of barriers etc. Comment BK 2250 SLM (SN3003910) BK 4231 calibrator (SN2217952) Microphone 4189-2887163 Preamplifier ID 19780 free-field ½ inch. UA-1650 windshield 24 th September 2015 SLM 13 th May 2015 calibrator See Appendix C. Field calibration conducted prior to and post the monitoring event. Broadband (excl. peak) A C Broadband peak C 1/3 Octave Z All results under Fast response unless otherwise stated. Refer to the commentary in main text. Refer to main text Section 2 for methodologies used. No continuous external noise sources encountered. Refer to Figure 1. Refer to Appendix B Refer to Section 2.4 Weather Condiions and Figure 2. The time and date of the measurement. Refer to main text Table 3. A description of the meteorological Refer to main text, Section 2 Monitoring conditions. Locations and Table 2.2. The background noise level (where Refer to L A90 values within Table 3 and historic practicable). data in Table 4. The names of the person/s that Kenneth Goodwin Member Institute of undertook the survey and drafted the Acoustics, Senior Consultant with Malone survey report. O Regan. Source: Section 7, Table 6 of the EPAs Guidance Note for Noise: Licence Applications, Surveys and Assessments in Relation to Scheduled Activities (NG4). Malone O Regan 1
APPENDIX B
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Table of Contents Plates Plate 1: Noise Monitoring Location N4... 1 Plate 2: Noise Monitoring Location N5... 5 Plate 3: Noise Monitoring Location N6... 8 Plate 4: Noise Monitoring Location S1... 12 Plate 5: Noise Monitoring Location S2... 15 Figures Figure 1: N4 Time History Chart Day Measurement One... 2 Figure 2: N4 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement One... 2 Figure 3: N4 Time History Chart Day Measurement Two... 3 Figure 4: N4 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Two... 3 Figure 5: N4 Time History Chart Day Measurement Three... 4 Figure 6: N4 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Three... 4 Figure 7: N5 Time History Chart Day Measurement One... 5 Figure 8: N5 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement One... 6 Figure 9: N5 Time History Chart Day Measurement Two... 6 Figure 10: N5 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Two... 7 Figure 11: N5 Time History Chart Day Measurement Three... 7 Figure 12: N5 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Three... 8 Figure 13: N6 Time History Chart Day Measurement One... 9 Figure 14: N6 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement One... 9 Figure 15: N6 Time History Chart Day Measurement Two... 10 Figure 16: N6 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Two... 10 Figure 17: N6 Time History Chart Day Measurement Three... 11 Figure 18: N6 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Three... 11 Figure 19: S1 Time History Chart Day Measurement One... 12 Figure 20: S1 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement One... 13 Figure 21: S1 Time History Chart Day Measurement Two... 13 Figure 22: S1 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Two... 14 Figure 23: S1 Time History Chart Day Measurement Three... 14 Figure 24: S1 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Three... 15 Figure 25: S2 Time History Chart Day Measurement One... 16 Figure 26: S2 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement One... 16 Figure 27: S2 Time History Chart Day Measurement Two... 17 Figure 28: S2 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Two... 17 Figure 29: S2 Time History Chart Day Measurement Three... 18 Figure 30: S2 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Three... 18 Malone O Regan Table of Contents
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Table 1: Sound Level Meter System Data Application BZ7224 Version 4.5.1 [System] Instrument Type Type2250 [System] Serial Number 3003910 [Transducer] Microphone Used 4189(2887163) [Transducer] Preamplifier ID No 19780 [Transducer] Transducer Description Free-field 1/2" [Calibration] Calibration Time UTC Date Time 10/12/2015 08:19 [Calibration] Deviation from initial -0.05 [Calibration] Deviation from last -0.04 [Frequency Weightings] Broadband (excl. Peak) [Frequency Weightings] Broadband Peak [Frequency Weightings] Spectrum [Frequency Weightings] Bandwidth AC C Z 1/3-octave [Measurement Control] Pre-set Logging Time 00:30:00 [Measurement Control] Logging Period Timespan 00:00:01 Plate 1: Noise Monitoring Location N4 Malone O Regan 1
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Figure 1: N4 Time History Chart Day Measurement One Figure 2: N4 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement One [db] N4 Day01 Total Cursor values LAeq: 57.1 db 60 50 40 30 20 10 16 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k 16k 31.5k A [Hz] C Malone O Regan 2
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Figure 3: N4 Time History Chart Day Measurement Two Figure 4: N4 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Two [db] N4 Day02 Total Cursor values LAeq: 58.2 db 60 50 40 30 20 10 16 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k 16k 31.5k A [Hz] C Malone O Regan 3
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Figure 5: N4 Time History Chart Day Measurement Three Figure 6: N4 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Three [db] N4 Day03 Total Cursor values LAeq: 57.5 db 60 50 40 30 20 10 16 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k 16k 31.5k A [Hz] C Malone O Regan 4
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Plate 2: Noise Monitoring Location N5 Figure 7: N5 Time History Chart Day Measurement One Malone O Regan 5
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Figure 8: N5 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement One [db] N5 Day01 Total Cursor values LAeq: 52.4 db 60 50 40 30 20 10 16 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k 16k 31.5k A [Hz] C Figure 9: N5 Time History Chart Day Measurement Two Malone O Regan 6
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Figure 10: N5 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Two [db] N5 Day02 Total Cursor values LAeq: 50.9 db 60 50 40 30 20 10 16 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k 16k 31.5k A [Hz] C Figure 11: N5 Time History Chart Day Measurement Three Malone O Regan 7
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Figure 12: N5 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Three [db] N5 Day03 Total Cursor values LAeq: 52.2 db 60 50 40 30 20 10 16 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k 16k 31.5k A [Hz] C Plate 3: Noise Monitoring Location N6 Malone O Regan 8
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Figure 13: N6 Time History Chart Day Measurement One Figure 14: N6 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement One [db] N6 Day01 Total Cursor values LAeq: 48.6 db 50 40 30 20 10 16 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k 16k 31.5k A [Hz] C Malone O Regan 9
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Figure 15: N6 Time History Chart Day Measurement Two Figure 16: N6 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Two [db] N6 Day02 Total Cursor values LAeq: 49.3 db 60 50 40 30 20 10 16 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k 16k 31.5k A [Hz] C Malone O Regan 10
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Figure 17: N6 Time History Chart Day Measurement Three Figure 18: N6 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Three Malone O Regan 11
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Plate 4: Noise Monitoring Location S1 [db] 60 N6 Day03 Total Cursor values LAeq: 49.3 db 50 40 30 20 10 16 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k 16k 31.5k A [Hz] C Figure 19: S1 Time History Chart Day Measurement One Malone O Regan 12
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Figure 20: S1 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement One [db] S1 Day01 Total Cursor values LAeq: 71.5 db 70 60 50 40 30 20 16 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k 16k 31.5k A [Hz] C Figure 21: S1 Time History Chart Day Measurement Two Malone O Regan 13
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Figure 22: S1 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Two [db] S1 Day02 Total Cursor values LAeq: 71.5 db 70 60 50 40 30 20 16 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k 16k 31.5k A [Hz] C Figure 23: S1 Time History Chart Day Measurement Three Malone O Regan 14
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Figure 24: S1 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Three [db] S1 Day03 Total Cursor values LAeq: 71.6 db 70 60 50 40 30 16 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k 16k 31.5k A [Hz] C Plate 5: Noise Monitoring Location S2 Malone O Regan 15
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Figure 25: S2 Time History Chart Day Measurement One Figure 26: S2 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement One [db] S2 Day01 Total Cursor values LAeq: 67.9 db 70 60 50 40 30 16 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k 16k 31.5k A [Hz] C Malone O Regan 16
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Figure 27: S2 Time History Chart Day Measurement Two Figure 28: S2 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Two [db] S2 Day02 Total Cursor values LAeq: 66.8 db 70 60 50 40 30 16 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k 16k 31.5k A [Hz] C Malone O Regan 17
Noise Charts and Plates E1204 December 2015 Figure 29: S2 Time History Chart Day Measurement Three Figure 30: S2 1/3 Octave Chart Day Measurement Three [db] 70 S2 Day03 Total Cursor values LAeq: 65.0 db 60 50 40 30 16 31.5 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k 16k 31.5k A [Hz] C Malone O Regan 18
APPENDIX C
APPENDIX D
E1204 Powerstown Onsite Met Mast Data Start Time 00:30 10/12/2015 End Time 00:00 11/12/2015 Wind Speed Wind Direction Wind Run Hi Wind Speed Hi Wind Speed Directdion Atmospheric Pressure Rainfall Rainfall Rate High 6.30 SW 11.27 10.70 SW 1020.10 0.00 0.00 Average 3.09 SW 5.55 5.99 SW 1018.40 0.00 0.00 Low 0.90 S 1.61 2.20 S 1017.00 0.00 0.00 Wind Wind Wind Hi Hi Rain Date Time Speed Dir Run Speed Dir Bar Rain Rate 10/12/2015 00:30 6.3 SW 11.27 10.7 SSW 1017.9 0 0 10/12/2015 01:00 5.8 SW 10.46 9.8 SW 1018.1 0 0 10/12/2015 01:30 5.4 SW 9.66 9.4 SW 1018.2 0 0 10/12/2015 02:00 4.5 SW 8.05 8.9 WSW 1018.2 0 0 10/12/2015 02:30 3.6 SSW 6.44 6.3 SSW 1018.2 0 0 10/12/2015 03:00 3.1 SSW 5.63 6.3 SSW 1018.3 0 0 10/12/2015 03:30 3.1 SSW 5.63 5.4 S 1018.4 0 0 10/12/2015 04:00 2.7 SW 4.83 5.4 SW 1018.4 0 0 10/12/2015 04:30 2.2 SW 4.02 5.8 SW 1018.4 0 0 10/12/2015 05:00 2.7 SW 4.83 5.4 SW 1018.6 0 0 10/12/2015 05:30 2.7 SW 4.83 6.7 WSW 1018.7 0 0 10/12/2015 06:00 2.7 SW 4.83 5.4 SW 1018.8 0 0 10/12/2015 06:30 1.8 SW 3.22 4.5 SW 1018.9 0 0 10/12/2015 07:00 0.9 WSW 1.61 4 WSW 1019 0 0 10/12/2015 07:30 0.9 SW 1.61 2.7 WSW 1019.2 0 0 10/12/2015 08:00 1.3 SW 2.41 2.2 SW 1019.4 0 0 10/12/2015 08:30 1.8 SW 3.22 3.6 S 1019.7 0 0 10/12/2015 09:00 1.8 S 3.22 4 SSE 1019.5 0 0 10/12/2015 09:30 2.2 SSE 4.02 3.6 SSE 1019.8 0 0 10/12/2015 10:00 2.7 SSE 4.83 5.4 SSE 1020 0 0 10/12/2015 10:30 2.7 SSE 4.83 4.5 SSE 1020.1 0 0 10/12/2015 11:00 2.7 SSE 4.83 4.5 S 1020.1 0 0 10/12/2015 11:30 2.7 SSE 4.83 4.5 SSE 1019.9 0 0 10/12/2015 12:00 1.8 S 3.22 5.4 SW 1019.6 0 0 10/12/2015 12:30 2.7 SSW 4.83 6.3 SW 1019.3 0 0 10/12/2015 13:00 2.7 SSW 4.83 6.7 SSW 1019.1 0 0 10/12/2015 13:30 3.1 SW 5.63 5.8 S 1018.7 0 0 10/12/2015 14:00 3.1 SW 5.63 6.3 SW 1018.6 0 0 10/12/2015 14:30 3.1 SW 5.63 6.3 SSW 1018.1 0 0 10/12/2015 15:00 3.6 SW 6.44 7.2 SSE 1018 0 0 10/12/2015 15:30 3.6 SW 6.44 6.3 SSW 1017.7 0 0 10/12/2015 16:00 3.6 SW 6.44 6.3 SSW 1017.4 0 0 10/12/2015 16:30 2.7 SSW 4.83 5.4 SW 1017.3 0 0 10/12/2015 17:00 2.7 SSW 4.83 4.9 SW 1017.2 0 0 10/12/2015 17:30 3.1 SW 5.63 6.3 SSW 1017 0 0 10/12/2015 18:00 3.6 SW 6.44 6.3 SW 1017 0 0 10/12/2015 18:30 3.6 SW 6.44 6.7 SW 1017.2 0 0 10/12/2015 19:00 4 SW 7.24 8 SW 1017.3 0 0 10/12/2015 19:30 4.9 SW 8.85 8.9 SW 1017.4 0 0 10/12/2015 20:00 4.9 SW 8.85 9.4 WSW 1017.6 0 0 10/12/2015 20:30 4 SW 7.24 7.6 SW 1017.5 0 0 10/12/2015 21:00 3.6 WSW 6.44 7.6 SW 1017.6 0 0 10/12/2015 21:30 3.6 SW 6.44 6.3 SSW 1017.5 0 0 10/12/2015 22:00 3.1 SW 5.63 5.4 SW 1017.8 0 0 10/12/2015 22:30 3.1 SW 5.63 5.4 SW 1018 0 0 10/12/2015 23:00 2.7 SW 4.83 4.9 SW 1018.1 0 0 10/12/2015 23:30 2.7 SW 4.83 4.5 SW 1018.1 0 0 11/12/2015 00:00 2.2 SW 4.02 4.5 SW 1018.2 0 0 Malone O'Regan 2015 Report 1 of 1