Pollution - Noise

Legislation requires that activities do not add to the overall ambient noise level and should achieve "no reaonable cause for annoyance" to persons beyond the boundary of the installation" (Ref. 1)

The key sources of noise on industrial poultry units are ventilation fans, feeders, conveyor belts, the arrival operation and departure of feed trucks, loading trucks and clean-out equipment. Also, noise from fork lifts can contribute considerably to overall noise levels.

It has been reported (Ref.2) that these external noise levels can can exceed 90dB for extended periods of time.

The noise from ventilation fans is a particular concern, because they will have to operate 24/7 to ensure a constant temperature within the sheds and also that the levels of ammonia and other noxious gases are maintained at levels which will not cause harm to the health and productivity of the hens.

Whilst hens require a calm environment, they will adapt to constant levels of noise, such as extraction fans running continuously.

Because a particularly quiet site, remote from main roads, has been chosen by CFL for this installation, there is concern from residents within the wider loacality about the noise levels at nights, associated with the two sheds.