One of the challenges of large projects such as Peninsula Link is managing the level of construction generated noise and dust.  Abigroup have developed an environmental management plan which outlines how noise and dust impacts will be minimised.

Noise

The works most likely to generate noise include clearing, bulk earthworks, bridge building and paving. However, the construction front moves quickly and activities in a particular area rarely last more than a few months. Bridge construction is an exception and can be expected to last for six to twelve months.

Noisy activities are confined to normal working hours to the greatest extent possible.  Normal working hours are:

• 6am to 7pm Monday to Friday
• 7am to 7pm on Saturdays. 

Works may be  required outside of these hours for safety or other reasons. Under Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations, noisy construction activities are permitted outside normal working hours but such activities require community consultation and strict noise limits apply.

When out-of-hours works are required in a particular area, Abigroup will consult the community about the need for those works and the circumstances under which they will occur.

Other measures to minimise noise impacts will include:

• early notification of construction activities for residents and businesses 
• position equipment away from nearby residences and businesses or shield with temporary barriers
• position site entry and exit gates away from residences
• take regular measurements to assess noise impacts
• staff training to ensure they are fully aware of the need to minimise noise when working close to residencies and sensitive public facilities.

Dust

Dust is sometimes an issue for large construction projects, especially on projects with many truck movements, on windy days and in summer when the ground is at its driest or on unusually windy days.

The primary method for controlling dust during construction will be using water tankers and cannon mist sprayers of non-potable water mixed with an approved dust suppression chemical. Site supervisors will determine the number of water tankers and other equipment needed and the frequency of application, based on:

• weather conditions
• traffic volumes
• the extent of any exposed construction area capable of producing dust.

In addition to water spraying:

• all construction vehicles travelling to and from a work zone on public roads will be required to have their load bays covered
• access roads within work zones will be stabilised to minimise dust generation
• drivers will be instructed to confine their vehicle movements, where possible, to those areas where dust suppression has been employed.

 Information

Managing construction impacts information sheet.