Complaints logged in Singapore about noise dropped from 16,600 in 2013 to 14,900 last year, new figures from the National Environment Agency (NEA) have shown.
One of the reasons for the fall, according to the NEA, is the Quieter Construction Fund (QCF) which will be extended until 2018 and see an increase in its funding cap. The QCF was introduced two years ago by the NEA to encourage companies to adopt technology and innovative solutions to reduce the impact of construction noise. Interestingly, about half of the approved applications were for the use of perimeter noise barriers.

Ray Lee from Echo Barrier, a leading manufacturer of noise reduction barriers for the Far East and Australia said: “Noise Barriers are a cost effective, quick and easy to use noise reduction solution and we are pleased to see that they have played an instrumental part in making Singapore quieter.”
Since its inception, 41 applications have been approved to receive grants totalling more than $1.3 million. It has also helped in reducing the number of violations of permissible noise limits from 483 cases in 2013 to 330 last year. "The QCF is one of the components that has led to the drop [in feedback and violations]," said Mr Fong Peng Keong, National Environment Agency (NEA) director of pollution control department. "If you are on a site where a contractor has applied for QCF and has already put in place solutions, you will experience a drastic drop and feel that the noise level has improved."
NEA chief executive Mr Ronnie Tay added: "We are aware that the costs of quieter construction technology and noise mitigating measures have remained high and the industry welcomes more funding assistance." Applicants must show that the nose mitigating performance of the equipment meets performance requirements in order to be eligible.
Mr Kent Ang added "The QCF complements productivity because work will not be stopped for noise violations and there will be no monetary loss through fines as well. More importantly, it helps us fulfil our corporate social responsibility as the community will definitely better off.”

If you would like to speak to one of our team about the use of Echo Barriers please contact us on info@echobarrier.com or visit our website at www.echobarrier.com