Indoor and Radiological Health (IRH) Branch

The Noise Program is guided by the following program objectives and strategies:

1. Objective:
   Achieve a tranquil, healthful environment.
2. 
   
Strategies
1. Respond to all regulated excessive noise complaints and seek resolution to noise problems.
2. Provide technical assistance to government agencies (e.g., County Liquor Commission, Department of Accounting and General Services, etc.) and develop partnership with other regulatory agencies involved in noise control.
3. Develop partnership with non-regulatory agencies. Work with project proponents to promote consideration of noise emissions prior to developing plans for building structures and business operations.



Backhoes create about 80 decibels of noise.



2. Objective:
   Enhance efficiency in the review process of noise permits, variances, land use documents, planned projects, environmental impact statements, etc., to ensure that public health is protected.



Strategies
1. Assure quality communication between contractors and impact communities.
2. After all information is provided by the applicant, evaluate and grant permits within thirty days, and variances within sixty days.
3. Provide evaluation and comments pertaining to potential noise impacts and mitigation within seven days.




3. Objective:
   Assure that noise emissions from permitted activities, including construction operations (day and night), stationary noise sources, and agricultural and industrial operations comply with specified conditions, standards, and rules.



Strategies
1. Inspect excessive noise sources for compliance with state laws, rules and standards.
2. Monitor permitted activities to ensure compliance with permit conditions; and respond to and resolve a violation of permit condition, rules and standards in a prompt and timely manner.






Noise concerns at the Convention Center -
Air conditioners will cool things down at 70 decibels.

4. 
   
4. Objective:
   Enhance education by ensuring a calm and serene learning environment.



Strategies
1. Conduct special monitoring, when requested, to ensure a quiet and tranquil classroom environment.
2. Monitor and assess noise levels within community environments.





5. Objective:
   Implement effective public outreach programs by educating the general public and industry on health effects of noise.
6. 
   
Strategies
1. Conduct outreach programs to inform the general public on noise.
2. Train enforcement personnel on noise measurements, regulatory provisions, and methods and procedures for noise control every two years.