How is construction noise measured and monitored?
Noise is measured as the equivalent continuous sound level, Leq, in A-weighted decibels, one metre outside the affected building. Sites within 150 m of noise-sensitive premises must install noise monitoring systems, which record Leq at five-minute intervals continuously and can capture maximum levels. NEA uses Class 1 meters for enforcement and does not accept phone apps. Larger projects near homes must submit a noise management plan before work starts.
From the RRD Field Guide, checked against the sources cited in Construction Noise and Working Hours in Singapore: NEA Limits, Sunday Rules, Condo and HDB Renovation Hours. General information, not advice for your project.
The fuller picture
NEA limits construction noise near homes within 150 m to 75 dBA (12-hour average) from 7 am to 7 pm, 65 dBA (1-hour) from 7 pm to 10 pm and 55 dBA (1-hour) overnight, with stricter limits near hospitals and schools. Sites within 150 m of homes or hospitals cannot work from 10 pm Saturday to 7 am Monday, or over public holidays, without a permit. Fines reach S$40,000.
More questions on this topic
- What time can construction start in Singapore?
- Is construction work allowed on Sundays in Singapore?
- What are the construction noise limits near homes?
- What is the fine for breaching construction noise limits?
- What are the renovation hours for HDB flats?
- What are the renovation hours in a condominium?
- Do the NEA construction noise limits apply to office fit-outs?