Noise compliance for mining machines

Mine sites require 24-hour operation to maximise profit, so being noise compliant reduces both the risk of fines and downtime caused by non-compliant assets. Strict noise restrictions apply to mining operations near residential areas. In the evening, noise regulations are stricter¹. Mines risk fines for noise violations, such as a Hunter Valley mine fined $15,000 for exceeding the night noise limit². Also worth mentioning is that none of the machines on this site had noise reduction equipment³.

Noise mitigation for mining machines

Mine sites will engage an acoustic solution provider to comply with in-service sound power targets. It is also essential to consider the acoustic strategy and maintenance access. Here are the main steps to asset noise compliance:

1. Scope of works
   Mine site defines sound targets (eg. 123 dBL) and asset-related outcomes (eg. maintenance access).
2. Acoustic supplier engagement
   Vendor selection, consultation, and package adoption (eg. suppression exhaust, attenuators).
3. Design phase
   Unattenuated sound testing⁴, acoustic modelling, engineering, and 3D CAD.
4. Manufacturing phase
   Fabrication and speciality parts ordering from suppliers (eg. acoustic foam and engine fans).
5. Prototype phase
   Trial install, sound testing⁴, revision as required, re-engineering, re-install and sound testing.
6. Fleet rollout
   Compliance, fleet implementation, and ongoing testing.

Fleet noise mitigation – questions to ask

If you’re looking for an acoustic partner, here are a few questions you should ask:

Capabilities for sound

• What suppression and attenuation wins have you had?
• How do you maximise maintenance access?
• Does external fire suppression have access to your acoustic engine bays?
• In what ways have you improved access for maintenance workers?

Supply and installation

• How do you manage an end-to-end project?
• Are your systems manufactured in-house?
• How long should our crew allow for installation?

Ongoing support

• After installation, do you provide on-site support?
• Where do you get spare parts? What is the lead time?

Mining asset noise regulations

For noise compliance, mine sites typically align with test standards. A few common standards are listed below. There may also be site-specific noise specifications.

¹ Environmental management – noise regulations (NSW EPA)

² Noise limit breach for Hunter Valley coal mine (NSW EPA)

³ Noise policy for industry (NSW EPA)

Industry noise assessment and management.

• E3 Extractive industry proposed for quiet rural area
  • Determine existing noise levels – measure noise levels for daytime, evening and night-time
  • Predict and measure level of noise and determine impact – steps include noise modelling and noise mitigation on haul trucks
  • Monitor performance

⁴ Earth-moving machinery test standards

• Australian Standards
  • AS 2012.1-1990 – Sound power, stationary test
• ISO Standards
  • ISO 3744-2010 – specifies methods for determining SPL
  • ISO 6393:2008(E) – SPL stationary tests
  • ISO 6395:2008(E) – SPL dynamic tests

QGN 22 Management of noise in mines (Qld Gov) 

Management of noise in mining operations (WA Dept Mines)