Assessing the performance of the simple noise chart method for construction noise prediction in earth-moving activity

Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering & Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), Sungai Long Campus, Jalan Sungai Long, 43000 Kajang, Malaysia.

^* Corresponding author: limmh@utar.edu.my

Abstract

Construction activity has long been associated with health problems caused by excessive noise exposure from the high noise emission machines. Indeed, predicting noise levels during the planning stages of a construction project can be challenging, particularly when considering complex and dynamic noise sources. This study aims to determine the accuracy and reliability of the simple prediction charts method in predicting construction noise. A case study of piling activity had been conducted at a construction site in Klang valley, Malaysia. The results showed that the average predicted noise levels were slightly higher than the actual measurements, but the highest absolute difference was only 0.9 dBA. The simple prediction charts can approximate the sound pressure level with high reliability with R² values of 0.9959. These results show that the simple prediction charts can accurately and reliably predict construction noise levels, providing a useful tool for predicting the noise levels from earthmoving machines at any point of the construction site. With the help of these charts, construction noise practitioners can more easily anticipate and manage potential noise issues.