EPA and the Ministry of Public Security join forces to monitor and control noise pollution

ON Thursday, November 22, 2018, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Security, facilitated a one-day capacity-building session with officers of the Guyana Police Force (GPF). This session focused on noise as an environmental pollutant and how it can be monitored and controlled to achieve a safe environment for all.

Additionally, this exercise was part of the efforts to strengthen relations between the two institutions to improve efficiency to better serve the Guyanese populace. You may have heard by now the buzz around town that a major simulation exercise was carried out at a few popular night spots, including the “Plaisance Line top.” This was only a practical demonstration to help officers of the GPF become familiar with the use of the data recording instruments and procedures.

Is Noise Pollution really a “Thing?”
Noise has always been an important environmental problem all over the world. In comparison to other pollutants, the control of environmental noise has been hindered by inadequate knowledge of its effects on humans, given the limited availability of research on the subject. While it has been suggested that noise pollution is primarily a “luxury” problem for developed countries, one cannot ignore that the exposure is often higher in developing countries (like Guyana), due to unsuitable or absence of land-use planning, poor construction of buildings, and the lack of enforcement capacity in regards to human resources. Existing research has shown that exposure to excessive noise can result in acute effects such as annoyance, sleep disturbance and interruption of tasks. More severe chronic effects include hearing impairment, mental health effects, and even cardiovascular diseases like hypertension and ischaemic heart disease.

WHY NOW ?
Data analysis by the EPA indicates that noise continues to be one of the major environmental complaints received from the public. In 2017, a total of 76 new noise complaints were received, and the first half of 2018 has seen 30 new complaints engaging the Agency’s attention.

Further, the country has seen an increase in open-air/outdoor sporting facilities in housing schemes. Notwithstanding that business development, including that from the entertainment industry, is an indicator of economic development, preventing, monitoring and controlling all forms of environmental pollution is necessary for the sustainable development of this sector.

Given the serious implications of noise pollution for human health and the environment, this issue is one that necessitates immediate collaboration for the institution of monitoring and enforcement systems from the relevant authorities.

HOW LOUD IS TOO LOUD?
The Environmental Protection (Noise Management) Regulations 2000 sets out that;
• No person is allowed to operate any sound-making device or equipment in a public place between 23:00h and 7:00h, except with the prior written permission of the EPA;

• Any person or business must apply for approval from the EPA before operating any sound-making device in a public place, e.g. anyone holding a Barbecue, open-air party, hotels utilising generators to supply energy, etc;

• Construction activities except for public works may be stopped during certain hours of the day on the complaint of neighbours;

• Operators of entertainment business such as nightclubs are required to soundproof their building if operating beyond midnight;

• Anyone affected by noise has the right to file a complaint with the EPA; and

• Activities from any business, vehicle or private premises should not exceed the following decibel levels;

CATEGORY DAY TIME LIMIT
(6:00-18:00h) Night Time Limit
(18:00h-6:00h)
Residential 75 60
Industrial 100 80
Commercial 80 65
Construction 90 75
Transportation 100 80
Recreational 100 100-70
Educational 75 60
Institution 75 60

THE LEGAL POWERS
In Guyana, the Environmental Protection Act of 1996 gives the legal authority to the EPA to;

• Establish, monitor and enforce environmental regulations such as the Noise Management Regulations;

• Prevent or control environmental pollution; and

• Support education and awareness by providing information to the public regarding the protection and improvement of the environment where altered directly or indirectly by human activity.

WHAT TO EXPECT
The EPA wishes to make it clear to the general public that it is not the intention of the agency to obstruct or hinder development in any way. However, activities whether related to supporting livelihoods, or even recreation, should not be done to the detriment of others.

As the partnership between the Ministry of Public Security and the EPA is fully laid out, the public will experience stronger support for business planning and development, swifter response and resolution of noise complaints, and more stringent but fair enforcement action against defaulters.

If you plan to, or currently operate any device, or promote any event that requires amplified sounds systems, please make contact with our office to get the necessary information and permission needed. This will not only secure your investment but it will ensure the safety of human health and the environment.

You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O ECEA Programme, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, Georgetown, or email us at eit.epaguyana@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.