Forum: NEA to continue studying measures to manage construction noise
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We thank Mr Loong Chik Tong for his letter “ Minimise construction noise for better HDB living
The National Environment Agency (NEA) recognises that excessive noise can impact the quality of life of residents in the neighbourhood of construction sites.
For this reason, construction sites near homes, hospitals, schools, and other noise-sensitive areas are subjected to more stringent regulatory noise limits. To monitor compliance, NEA requires contractors to install real-time noise meters and continuously record noise levels at the nearest affected premises.
NEA also takes strict enforcement action against contractors if they exceed the regulatory noise limits. If convicted, contractors can be fined up to $40,000 per offence. Recalcitrant contractors may also have their work hours or activities restricted.
To encourage quieter construction practices, NEA offered financial support under the Quieter Construction Innovation Fund for the adoption of quieter technologies like jack-in piling machines, hydraulic crushers, quieter generators, and rebar bending machines.
Looking ahead, contractors of large new projects near residential and noise-sensitive areas, which are tendered from April 1, 2025, onwards, must install noise barriers along the perimeter of their worksites. While minor repair works, which generally have a shorter duration, will not be covered by this requirement, the new requirement is aimed at reducing construction noise disamenities experienced by residents near large construction sites.
NEA will continue to work closely with the construction industry and stakeholders to explore further ways to manage construction noise, including the adoption of quieter construction equipment and methods.
Tan Li Yen
Group Director (Clean Environment Group)
National Environment Agency
