Content area
Full Text
As noise complaints about operators increase, Roger Brown looks at ways to keep local residents happy
Road transport can be a noisy business, and operators could be vulnerable to noise complaints from nearby residents and businesses.
However, experts tell MT that many noise disturbance problems with neighbours can be tackled if firms adopt a two- pronged approach: better training for drivers and greater investment in noise reduction technology.
Behavioural changes
According to Natalie Chapman, FTA head of policy for the South East, drivers should be encouraged to switch off their engines and refrigerator units when they are in the yard and to stop slamming truck doors or dragging exit gates.
"Companies should consider training to promote behavioural changes among drivers and warehouse staff," she adds.
Lisa Lavia, MD of the Noise Abatement Society (NAS), befieves haulage firms need to ingrain noise reduction procedures in the culture of the business in the same way they do health and safety procedures.
"Because delivery yards have lots of hard surfaces and cavernous structures, noise tends to bounce around and create vibrations through the yard," says Lavia.
"As a boss, ask your drivers not to scrape their wheels against kerbs, not to have their radios on loud at delivery points, tell them not to shout or throw boxes into the back of vehicles. If possible, give drivers an incentive, perhaps a financial bonus, to do this."
Expense
The other obvious answer is to invest in anti-noise technology, but often the cost can discourage hauliers. However, as Chapman points...