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11.0 NOISE AND VIBRATION 11.1 INTRODUCTION This chapter has been researched and prepared by TMS Environment Ltd. for Lagan Cement Ltd. This section of the report considers the potential noise and vibration impacts associated with the proposed Cement Capacity Increase and the proposed concrete products production area. Impacts of site operations are considered in the context of appropriate standards and guidelines, together with requirements for noise and vibration monitoring and control. The impact assessment has been carried out by reviewing existing noise data from local sensitive areas together with the manufacturer’s specifications for noise emissions from operation of the individual plants. 11.2 THE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT An integral part of an environmental noise assessment of a proposed development is an understanding of the noise environment that exists in the area potentially affected by the development. It is, therefore, accepted practice to undertake or review background noise measurements at surrounding locations that may be sensitive to noise. These are usually the dwellings that are in the immediate vicinity of the site. There are a number of single housing developments around the Lagan Cement Ltd site and the noise climate has been assessed over the past number of years by noise assessments carried out as a condition of Lagan Cements existing IPPC licence (P.0487-03). The noise compliance monitoring programme that has been in place at the site since June 2000 has continually demonstrated compliance with the regulatory noise limits at local noise sensitive receptors. There are a number of significant screening banks surrounding sections of the site boundaries which are adjacent the closest receptors to the site. These screening banks offer significant noise attenuation from noise generating activities and visually screen the Cement Plant and quarry areas from NSR-2 to NSR-8. Noise monitoring was most recently conducted on 11 th and 12 th July 2006 when the Cement Plant, limestone quarry and the Lagan Asphalt Plant were operating normally. This survey was conducted in the vicinity of the site in accordance with ISO 1996 Acoustics - Description and Measurement of Environmental Noise and with reference to the EPA publication; Noise Survey Guidance Document 2003. The results of this survey are presented in Table 11.1. The results demonstrate that the existing site activities do not exceed the permissible levels and hence demonstrate compliance with the requirements of the existing IPPC Licence (PO487-03). Condition 4.5 of IPPC Licence PO487-03 as granted by the EPA states, “Noise from the activity shall not give rise to sound pressure levels (LAeq, T) measured at the specified noise sensitive locations which exceed the specified limit value(s)”. Environmental Impact Statement. 11 - 1 Lagan Cement Ltd, Kinnegad, Co. Meath. For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. EPA Export 25-07-2013:21:11:52

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11.0 NOISE AND VIBRATION 11.1 INTRODUCTION

This chapter has been researched and prepared by TMS Environment Ltd. for Lagan Cement Ltd. This section of the report considers the potential noise and vibration impacts associated with the proposed Cement Capacity Increase and the proposed concrete products production area. Impacts of site operations are considered in the context of appropriate standards and guidelines, together with requirements for noise and vibration monitoring and control. The impact assessment has been carried out by reviewing existing noise data from local sensitive areas together with the manufacturer’s specifications for noise emissions from operation of the individual plants.

11.2 THE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

An integral part of an environmental noise assessment of a proposed development is an understanding of the noise environment that exists in the area potentially affected by the development. It is, therefore, accepted practice to undertake or review background noise measurements at surrounding locations that may be sensitive to noise. These are usually the dwellings that are in the immediate vicinity of the site. There are a number of single housing developments around the Lagan Cement Ltd site and the noise climate has been assessed over the past number of years by noise assessments carried out as a condition of Lagan Cements existing IPPC licence (P.0487-03). The noise compliance monitoring programme that has been in place at the site since June 2000 has continually demonstrated compliance with the regulatory noise limits at local noise sensitive receptors. There are a number of significant screening banks surrounding sections of the site boundaries which are adjacent the closest receptors to the site. These screening banks offer significant noise attenuation from noise generating activities and visually screen the Cement Plant and quarry areas from NSR-2 to NSR-8. Noise monitoring was most recently conducted on 11th and 12th July 2006 when the Cement Plant, limestone quarry and the Lagan Asphalt Plant were operating normally. This survey was conducted in the vicinity of the site in accordance with ISO 1996 Acoustics - Description and Measurement of Environmental Noise and with reference to the EPA publication; Noise Survey Guidance Document 2003. The results of this survey are presented in Table 11.1. The results demonstrate that the existing site activities do not exceed the permissible levels and hence demonstrate compliance with the requirements of the existing IPPC Licence (PO487-03). Condition 4.5 of IPPC Licence PO487-03 as granted by the EPA states, “Noise from the activity shall not give rise to sound pressure levels (LAeq, T) measured at the specified noise sensitive locations which exceed the specified limit value(s)”.

Environmental Impact Statement. 11 - 1 Lagan Cement Ltd, Kinnegad, Co. Meath.

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Schedule B.4 of IPPC Licence PO487-03 as granted by the EPA specifies the following noise limit values which must not be exceeded at any Noise Sensitive Receptor., Daytime: 55dB(A) Night-time: 45dB(A)” In addition, Condition 6.13 of the licence states that “there will be no clearly audible tonal component or impulsive component in the noise emission from the activity at any noise sensitive location. Tonal component shall be identified by one-third octave band analysis as specified in ISO 1996-2 of 1987, where the level of a one-third octave band exceeds the levels of adjacent bands by 5 dB or more" The adjacent Lagan Asphalt Ltd plant on the noise climate was also considered in this assessment since this facility as well as the cement plant and associated activities were operating normally during the survey.

Environmental Impact Statement. 11 - 2 Lagan Cement Ltd, Kinnegad, Co. Meath.

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Table 11.1 Noise Monitoring Details at Local Noise Sensitive Receptors

Measurement Location /

Measurement Time

LAeq,30mins dB(A)

LA90, 30 mins dB(A)

LA10, 30mins

dB(A) Observations

NSR-1 Landsdown Lodge Daytime 09:00 Night time 01:10

50 42

46 43

55 45

Quarry noise clearly audible during day.

Cement Plant audible during night.

NSR-2 Goonery Daytime 12:45 Night time 02:48 Morning 07:13

47 42 45

46 44 43

50 46 48

Quarry noise clearly audible during day.

Cement Plant audible during night.

NSR-3 Coffey Daytime 12:20 Night time 03:20 Morning 06:00

53 41 45

51 44 45

55 46 47

Quarry noise clearly audible during day.

Cement Plant audible during night.

NSR-4 Fox Daytime 13:50 Night time 04:37

51 44

46 43

53 45

Plant operations audible in distance.

NSR-5 Bracken Daytime 14:35 Night time 05:16

54 37

44 43

55 43

Plant operations only very faintly audible during day

and night

NSR-6 Bent Daytime 13:10 Night time 02:15

48 41

46 44

50 45

Cement Plant operations audible during day and

night

NSR-7 Judge Daytime 09:30 Night time 01:45

53 37

52 43

65 44

Plant operations very faintly audible in distance

NSR-8 Brazil Daytime 08:00 Night time 04:02 Morning 06:20

43 35 40

43 43 43

45 43 45

Plant operations audible in distance.

Environmental Impact Statement. 11 - 3 Lagan Cement Ltd, Kinnegad, Co. Meath.

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11.3 IMPACT OF THE DEVELOPMENT CONCRETE PRODUCTS PRODUCTION AREA 11.3.1 Construction Impacts

There is no published Irish guidance relating to the maximum permissible noise level that may be generated during the construction phase of a project. In the absence of appropriate criteria relating to permissible construction noise levels, the following limits as specified in the National Roads Authority (NRA) publication entitle ‘Guidelines for the Treatment of Noise and Vibration in National Road Schemes, revision 1, October 2004’, are considered suitable and are deemed acceptable, for example, for motorway construction.

Table 11.2 Maximum permissible noise levels at the façade of dwellings during

construction

Day and Times LAeq (1hr) dB LpA(max)slow dB Monday to Friday 07:00 to 19:00hrs 70 80

Monday to Friday 19:00 to 22:00hrs 60 65

Saturday08:00 to 16:30hrs 65 75

Sundays and Bank Holidays

08:00 to 16:30hrs 60 65

The development of the facility will necessitate the construction of new infrastructure at the site. However it is expected that once the foundation work and associated groundworks have been completed the majority of the construction will be assembly of the frameworks and panels which will arrive ready-made at the facility. This will require minimal use of large-scale heavy plant items. Table 11.3 below, taken from Annex C OF BS5228 gives typical noise levels given by construction plant and activities.

Environmental Impact Statement. 11 - 4 Lagan Cement Ltd, Kinnegad, Co. Meath.

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Table 11.3 Sound Level Data for Typical Plant and Equipment

Activity Power Rating

kw

Sound Power Level

dB

Activity Equivalent Continuous Sound

Pressure level, LAeq at 10m

Dozer 201 115 92 Grader 168 112 84 Wheeled loader 52 101 73 Loading scaffolding -- 100 72 Dump truck 450 110 82 Excavator 309 109 86 Compressor -- 100 72 Generator -- 100 72 Concrete mixer 2 89 61

Source: Derived from Annex C of BS5228; Part 1:1997

A variety of items of plant will be in use, such as excavators, lifting equipment, dumper trucks, compressors and generators; however after the initial groundworks their use will be limited. There will also be vehicular movements to and from the site that will make use of existing roads. Due to the nature of the activities undertaken on a large construction site there is potential for generation of increased levels of noise. However the distances to local sensitive dwellings will ensure that the resultant impact will be minimal.

11.3.2 Mortar Plant

This plant will produce an output of 70,000 tonnes of mortar product per annum producing approximately 60% dry mortar. The dry mortar plant end product will be split between bulk transport, 10 tonne silos and bags. The mortar plant is configured as a high level mixing plant (Mixing Tower) for Dry Mortar and Plaster. The aggregates are dumped into the inlet funnel (receiving hopper) by truck or front end loader. Materials are transported from the receiver hopper up to the Fluid Bed Dryer/Cooler, the Dryer is within a building, by belt conveyors. The Fluid Bed Dryer/Cooler is connected with a belt bucket elevator which charges the storage silos within the mixing tower. The aggregates, binders and additives are weighed in a weighing hopper and the whole batch is released into a single shaft mixer. Following the batch time the homogenised material is distributed by a belt conveyor either to the packing plant, to the bulk loading or to the finished product silos. The enclosure of the mortar batching plant within the plant building will offer significant noise attenuation and is fundamental to minimising the noise impacts on the local environment.

Environmental Impact Statement. 11 - 5 Lagan Cement Ltd, Kinnegad, Co. Meath.

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The noise associated with the concrete batching plant will be restricted to the hours of operation, that is, from 07:00 to 19:00 Monday to Friday and 08:00 to 13:00 on Saturdays. Noise will therefore not be generated during the more sensitive night time period. In addition it is not planned to operate the mortar batching plant on Sundays or on public holidays.

11.3.2.1 Mortar Plant Noise Emissions

The main noise sources associated with the mortar batching plant will be those from the traffic movements to the site, transfer of raw material via conveyor into the pan mixer, and the mixing process within the plant building. The loading of the weigh hopper, the mixing process and subsequent loading of a mixer truck will not be continuous and will be of relatively short duration, typically 10 minutes. All of the buildings and the associated internal noise attenuation measures have been designed to ensure that the internal noise levels will not exceed 85dB(A). The list below gives the typical sources associated with the proposed mortar batching plant. Major noise sources at batching plants include:

Receiving hopper with vibrating motor The aggregates, delivered by truck, are dumped into the storage boxes or inlet funnel. The noise generating period is very short. The emission values have been taken at a distance of 10m to the hopper, 10m – emission level approx. 85 dB(A) Belt transfer onto charging belt conveyor Transfer onto charging conveyor if height of fall approx. 0,8 m. noise level approx. 80dB(A). Along the running belt conveyor Because of the housing (Organit-covering) this value is negligible. Fluid Bed Dryer The Fluid Bed Dryer/Cooler is being charged by a connecting belt conveyor. According to the specification the noise level of the single machines are < 80dB(A) on 1 meter distance. Mixer During mixing of the aggregates, the mixer is the “main noise producer” in the mixing plant. 10m – emission level approx. 82 dB(A)

External Noise Levels

Noise level details provided by the manufacturer indicate that the noise level at 10m from the outside of the plant is 68dB(A). The only other source of noise associated with the production process will be traffic movements

Environmental Impact Statement. 11 - 6 Lagan Cement Ltd, Kinnegad, Co. Meath.

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11.3.2.2 Noise Level Predictions

The predicted noise levels that will be experienced at the nearest residences as a result of the operation of the mortar plant have been calculated using the method outlined in ISO 9613: Acoustics - Attenuation of sound outdoors, Part 2: General method of calculation, 1996.

The methodology takes into account the following factors: (a) the sound power outputs of processes and plant, (b) the periods of operation of processes and plant, (c) the distances from source to receiver, (d) the presence of screening barriers, (e) the reflection of sound, (f) soft ground attenuation.

Calculations of predicted impacts at the closest receptors are presented in Appendix 11.1. The maximum predicted noise levels that have been calculated are based on the noise source emissions supplied by the manufacturer. Table 11.4 details the predicted noise levels at the assessment locations considered in this study. The table assesses the impact by comparing the predicted specific noise level from the operation of the plant with the existing low level L90 background level recorded at the local sensitive areas.

Table 11.4 Predicted noise levels from operation of mortar plant NOTE icted ar m [1] Pred

Noise Sensitive Receptor

valuesDistance From NSR To Plant

e derived froTime Period Day/Night

Appendix 1. Existing L

(m)

90 Background Noise Level

dB(A)

Predicted Specific

Noise Level The maximum predicted noi

dB(A)

Impact

Day 44 13 Negligible NSR-2 760

Night 43 13 Negligible

Day 51 13 Negligible NSR-3 780

Night 45 13 Negligible

Day 46 10 Negligible NSR-4 980 Night 43 10 Negligible

Day 44 21 Negligible NSR-5 560

Night 43 21 Negligible

Day 46 10 Negligible NSR-6 580

Night 44 10 Negligible

Day 52 6 Negligible NSR-7 1400

Night 43 6 Negligible

Day 43 9 Negligible NSR-8 Brassil’s 1100

Night 43 9 Negligible

Environmental Impact Statement. 11 - 7 Lagan Cement Ltd, Kinnegad, Co. Meath.

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Noise levels associated with the mortar batching plant, when fully operational that will be experienced at the nearest residences will not exceed 21dB(A). The table indicates that the impact of the proposed batching plant on the existing noise environment is negligible. Quarrying activities will continue at current rates of extraction with the rock going through primary and secondary crushing before being transported to the blending bed in the blending shed. The noise impact from operation of the quarrying activities has been considered in an EIS prepared in April 2004, and has been shown to be within the licence conditions.

11.3.3 Roof Tile Plant It is proposed to construct a roof tile plant with internal staff facilities to produce up to 50,000 tonnes of roof tiles per annum. The main elements of the plant are the screen, holding hopper & weighing system, concrete mixer and the tile extruder. The aggregate deliveries arrive on site & are tipped into the hoppers. The aggregates then go through a screen and up to the Holding Hopper where it is then weighed up on the weighing system and blended together to the mixer. The Cement is brought up by means of a cement screw. The Cement is discharged into the mixer and pigment slurry is added. The hydronix system then takes a moisture reading and water is then added to the settings required. The mix is then dropped into a hopper above the conveyor and fed to the Tile Extruder. The tile mould is fed towards the extruder and is sprayed with release oil. Over spray from the release oil is filtered and put back into the release oil tank. The mix is then dropped into a hopper above the conveyor and fed to the Tile Extruder. The tiles are then loaded and pushed into the Carousel Rotary. By this stage, the tiles have reached the exit point of the Rotary. Each rack holds 200 tiles which are then pushed out by the Cured tile pusher onto a conveyor.

The tiles are then fed towards the depalleter. The tile is split from the mould and the mould is fed back round to the Tile Extruder. The tile is then sent in another direction to the Paint Booth before being stored for transport.

11.3.3.1 Roof Tile Plant Noise Source Emissions

Noise emission sources used in the calculation of the noise levels at sensitive dwellings were those measured at the existing Lagan Tile plant in Lisburn, Country Antrim. The main noise source emissions are detailed below.

Table 11.5 Sound Level Data for Typical Tile Plant and Equipment

Location LAeq dB(A) Cement screen/vibrator 88

Extruder main plant 87 Ridge tile plant 83

Mixer area 89 Loading shovel 89

Rotary boiler 78

Environmental Impact Statement. 11 - 8 Lagan Cement Ltd, Kinnegad, Co. Meath.

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Noise levels at 10m from the outside of the plant are not expected to exceed 69dB(A). The only other source of noise associated with the production process will be traffic movements.

11.3.3.2 Roof Tile Plant Noise Level Predictions

Table 11.6 details the predicted noise levels at the assessment locations considered in this study. The table assesses the impact by comparing the predicted specific noise level from the operation of the plant with the existing low level L90 background level recorded at the local sensitive areas.

Table 11.6 Predicted noise levels from operation of Tile Plant

Noise Sensitive Receptor

Distance From NSR To Plant

(m)

Time Period Day/Night

Existing L90 Background Noise Level

dB(A)

Predicted Specific

Noise Level dB(A)

Impact

Day 44 14 Negligible NSR-2 780

Night 43 14 Negligible

Day 51 13 Negligible NSR-3 800

Night 45 13 Negligible

Day 46 11 Negligible NSR-4 990

Night 43 11 Negligible

Day 44 21 Negligible NSR-5 570

Night 43 21 Negligible

Day 46 17 Negligible NSR-6 600

Night 44 17 Negligible

Day 52 7 Negligible NSR-7 1410

Night 43 7 Negligible

Day 43 9 Negligible Brassil’s 1150

Night 43 9 Negligible

NOTE [1] Predicted values are derived from Appendix 1

11.3.4. Block Paving Plant It is proposed to construct a concrete block pavers plant with internal staff facilities to produce up to 100,000 tonnes of concrete floor pavers per annum. The main elements include the feed hopper for limestone and sand, the fluidised bed dryer/cooler, block forming machine, conveyors and silos for storage of product.

Environmental Impact Statement. 11 - 9 Lagan Cement Ltd, Kinnegad, Co. Meath.

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The paving block plant is a high volume production process will produce a variety of different paving block ranges. The entire mixing process is totally automated and controlled by PLC's to ensure consistency of manufacture and orderly storage and curing of the blocks. The aggregates for production are delivered by truck into a ground feed hopper from which each material is fed into covered storage bins. A batching system dispenses the exact quantity of each material by measuring the weight of the aggregate with load cells beneath the conveyor. The mixed aggregates are transferred into a holding hopper above the concrete mixer. Cement is fed to the mixer and water is added in a carefully controlled way so that the resulting concrete has the correct moisture content and consistency. Pigment is added to the mix during the mixing process. At the start of the process, a palette is moved into position in the block press, the mould-box is lowered onto the palette and the feed drawer fills the mould box with mixed concrete. Flat compaction heads are lowered onto the mould and heavy vibration is applied to compact the block to size. The mould is then lifted and the palette containing the wet paving block moves down the production line. Palettes containing the formed paving blocks are moved to a storage elevator. When the storage elevator is full, a finger car automatically lifts the palettes and transfers them to one of the curing chambers. During the following 24 hour period, the heat developed by the hydration of the cement cures the paving blocks. The curing chambers are highly insulated to contain the heat and humidity produced during the curing cycle. After curing, the paving blocks are transferred by the finger car to lowerators where the product is continually inspected and sampled for laboratory testing. Hydraulic grabs lift the blocks from the palette and stack them into cubes which are strapped and wrapped for protection during storage. Each cube is individually tagged with both a tracking code and a product description prior to being moved from the conveyor for storage in the yard. The blocks are kept in storage until the appropriate strengths have developed.

11.3.4.1 Block Paving Plant Noise Emissions

The main noise sources associated with the paving plant will be those from the traffic movements to the site, transfer of raw material via conveyors, and the block forming machine. All of the buildings and the associated internal noise attenuation measures have been designed to ensure that the internal noise levels will not exceed 85dB(A). The list below gives the typical sources associated with the proposed block paving plant.

Table 11.7 Paving Plant Noise Source Emissions (inside production building)

Location LAeq dB(A)

Inspection line 87 Product transfer line 85

Block forming machine 106 Transporter to curing racks 87

Environmental Impact Statement. 11 - 10 Lagan Cement Ltd, Kinnegad, Co. Meath.

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Noise levels at 10m from the outside of the plant are not expected to exceed 64dB(A). The only other source of noise associated with the production process will be traffic movements.

11.3.4.2 Paving Plant Noise Level Predictions

Table 11.8 details the predicted noise levels at the assessment locations considered in this study. The table assesses the impact by comparing the predicted specific noise level from the operation of the paving plant with the existing low level L90 background level recorded at the local sensitive areas

Table 11.8 Predicted noise levels from operation of Paving Plant

Noise Sensitive Receptor

Distance From NSR To Plant

(m)

Time Period Day/Night

Existing L90 Background Noise Level

dB(A)

Predicted Specific

Noise Level dB(A)

Impact

Day 44 8 Negligible NSR-2 800

Night 43 8 Negligible

Day 51 8 Negligible NSR-3 830

Night 45 8 Negligible

Day 46 6 Negligible NSR-4 980

Night 43 6 Negligible

Day 44 13 Negligible NSR-5 540

Night 43 13 Negligible

Day 46 11 Negligible NSR-6 610

Night 44 11 Negligible

Day 52 2 Negligible NSR-7 1430

Night 43 2 Negligible

Day 43 8 Negligible Brassil’s 1130

Night 43 8 Negligible

NOTE [1] Predicted values are derived from Appendix 1.

Environmental Impact Statement. 11 - 11 Lagan Cement Ltd, Kinnegad, Co. Meath.

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INCREASE IN CEMENT PRODUCTION 11.3.5 Impacts

Construction Impacts The increase in cement production at the site will not require any additional plant as the existing cement manufacturing plant and associated quarry machinery has the capacity to facilitate the proposed increase in cement production. The screening banks which are in place at site boundaries together with the extended distances between noise sources and receptors are fundamental to the attenuation of noise generated by site operations and therefore the minimisation of noise impacts that may be experienced at nearest noise sensitive receptors. Operational Impacts The only potential for increased noise levels to occur as a result of the proposed increase in production is associated with the predicted increase in traffic movements at the site in particular, HGV movements associated with the export of product from the site and additional deliveries of raw materials to the site. The resultant increase in traffic volumes is discussed in section 11.3.7. USE OF WASTE MATERIALS

11.3.6 Impacts

It is also proposed to recycle waste gypsums and waste ashes as a raw material in the cement production process. It is also intended to use waste construction and demolition (C & D) wood, waste sludge, clean sawdust waste and sawmill and forestry residues as fuels at the cement manufacturing facility. The utilisation of these alternative fuels will not influence the existing noise environment at the local sensitive areas. There will be no construction or operational noise impacts arising from this activity. OTHER IMPACTS

11.3.7 Traffic Noise The principal source of noise arising from the operation of the plants and the increase in production at the cement plant will be from the HGV movements. At full production, the mortar plant will manufacture up to approximately 70,000 tonnes of mortar, the roof tile plant approximately 50,000 tonnes and the block paving is expected to produce 100,000 tonnes. The traffic assessment carried out by Faber Maunsell predicted that the development would result in 92 extra daily HGV traffic movements and 138 employee vehicle movements in the forecast year 2017. There will be 75 extra staff employed at the plant. The calculation to assess the noise impact of this increase used the worst case scenario of 8 vehicle movements per hour at 20km/hr, a maximum Sound Power Level of 96dB(A) for the trucks and the minimum distances between the site yard area and the sensitive areas. A peak hourly figure of 40 vehicles was used to calculate the employee movements with power level of 68dB(A). The maximum predicted LAeq, 1hr as a result of traffic movements associated with the proposed development is 21dB(A).

Environmental Impact Statement. 11 - 12 Lagan Cement Ltd, Kinnegad, Co. Meath.

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This value attributable to HGV movements on the access roads is significantly lower than the internationally applied criterion of 65dB(A) for acceptability of traffic noise and does also not exceed the EPA BATNEEC Guidance value for noise (LAeq, 1hr = 55dB(A)). Traffic movements from the plants departing the Lagan facility will turn left at the exit towards Kinnegad and the M4 thereby resulting in no increases in noise levels at sensitive areas in the direction of Killaskillen Crossroads. Typically a doubling of traffic volumes on a route will result in a 3dB increase in noise levels. However in this scenario, as the increase in hourly traffic movements is so small, compared with the existing traffic levels in the region, the noise impact of additional traffic movements on the routes to and from the Lagan facility will be negligible at local sensitive areas.

The licence compliance monitoring has indicated that the facility is within its noise limits, and site related traffic noise is not audible at the local sensitive areas. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS OF ALL DEVELOPMENTS

11.3.8 Cumulative Impact of Noise Sources

In order to assess the maximum noise impacts that may be experienced at local residences, it is necessary to identify all potential noise sources in the vicinity of these residences. The combined noise impacts that may be experienced as a result of all activities at local noise sensitive receptors has been assessed and the results of the assessment are presented in Table 11.9. The existing facility is licenced by the EPA under the EPA Act 1992 and from the noise measurement results presented in Table 11.1, it is evident that the existing site operations comply with the IPPC Licence noise limits of 55 dB(A)LAeq,15 minutes during the daytime and 45 dB(A)LAeq,15 mins during the night time periods. The predicted specific noise levels at the closest residences to the site, NSR-2, to NSR-8 have been calculated to be below the existing low level noise at these locations. Considering that these are the nearest receptors to the facility, the noise impacts will be even less at other residences in the area which are situated even further away from the noise source. It should be noted that the predicted noise levels are compared against the L90 low level parameter at each location and not the LAeq average noise level. All calculations of predicted noise have been made with the plants operational at 100% capacity. The minimal noise impact that has been predicted can be explained as a result of the extended distances between the proposed plants and local receptors while the presence of the screening mounds contribute to attenuation of noise levels generated by site activities. Annual noise and vibration monitoring data collected over the past number of years have indicated that the facility is complying with the conditions of the IPPC Licence. As the mechanical process of the cement production will not require additional plant or machinery, it is predicted that there will be no increase in noise levels at local noise sensitive receptors.

Environmental Impact Statement. 11 - 13 Lagan Cement Ltd, Kinnegad, Co. Meath.

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With continued good noise management practices the site will not result in unacceptable noise levels or result in nuisance beyond site boundaries or at local noise sensitive receptors. The total predicted noise levels as a result of the developments proposed will not result in any increase on the existing levels at the local sensitive areas.

Table 11.9 Combined noise levels predicted as a result of the proposed development

Predicted Noise Levels dB(A) Noise

sensitive receptor

Day/NIght

Existing L90

dB(A) Mortar Plant

Tile Plant

Paving Plant Traffic Total

Day 44 13 14 8 18 19 NSR-2

Night 43 13 14 8 18 19

Day 51 13 13 8 18 19 NSR-3

Night 45 13 13 8 18 19

Day 46 10 11 6 17 18 NSR-4

Night 43 10 11 6 17 18

Day 44 21 21 13 21 24 NSR-5

Night 43 21 21 13 21 24

Day 46 10 17 11 19 21 NSR-6

Night 44 10 17 11 19 21

Day 52 6 7 2 16 16 NSR-7

Night 43 6 7 2 16 16

Day 43 9 9 8 16 17 NSR-8

Night 43 9 9 8 16 17 11.3.9 Vibration

There will be no ground vibrations as a result of the operation of the concrete products plant operations or increase in cement production. Ground vibrations associated with the movements of vehicles, in particular HGV's, at the site will be minimised as a result of the existing asphalt/concrete site entrance road and surface yard area surrounding the site. This will ensure that vehicle axle vibrations and associated noise levels are minimised. Blasting in the adjacent quarry will continue at the current frequency of one blast every eight days. Vibration impacts expressed as peak particle velocities and the concussive element of the blast expressed as air overpressure is monitored at local receptors adjacent the quarry site on an annual basis to assess compliance with the IPC Licence.

Environmental Impact Statement. 11 - 14 Lagan Cement Ltd, Kinnegad, Co. Meath.

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11.3.10 Air Overpressure

Air overpressure (AOP) is energy transmitted from the blast site within the atmosphere in the form of pressure waves. As these waves pass a given position, the pressure of the air rises very rapidly then falls more slowly then returns to the ambient value after a number of oscillations. The maximum excess pressure in this wave is known as the peak air overpressure, generally measured in decibels linear (dB). Lagan Cement will manage blasts in the quarry in accordance with Best Practice in this field, and potential impacts associated with the activity will thus be minimised. The company will work in accordance with its ‘Good Neighbours Environmental Plan'. Lagan Cement has engaged a blasting consultant to review current procedures and in conjunction with Irish Industrial Explosives has introduced changes in blast design in order to control any exceedances in AOP in line with accepted best practice. The steps taken include reducing the length of face blasted and avoiding short delay times across the face. It is proposed to carry out an enhanced monitoring programme to the end of 2006 to continue monitoring air overpressure levels at the Coffey and Goonery houses the closest residences to the blast sites. All shot holes will be drilled to exact specifications by specialist contractors. Any features encountered during drilling such as cavities or soft material will be recorded by the drilling contractor and this information will be subsequently passed on to the shot-firer so that the correct charge may be used. This will ensure safe and efficient blasting of the rock face. While some exceedances in AOP at one nearby residence have occurred in 2006, Lagan Cement Ltd have engaged the services of extremely experienced consultants and practitioners to address these issues and to ensure that future blasts are managed to enhance the management and control of AOP and vibration at all adjacent residences.

11.4 MITIGATION MEASURES

Increase in Cement Production The existing mitigation measures have been shown to be effective in the minimisation of noise from the cement manufacturing facility. The noise monitoring programme should be continued to ensure compliance with the IPPC licence limits at the boundary locations and at the noise sensitive locations. Concrete Products Production Area Noise levels arising as a result of the proposed development will be limited as a result of the mortar manufacturing process being enclosed within the proposed plant building. Due to the nature of the batching plant process there is no continuous noise source associated with the operation. The intermittent "batching" process will ensure that the levels of noise generated as a result of plant activities will not be continuous and therefore will reduce any potential impact the plant may have on the local noise climate in the vicinity of the site. With the complete housing of the three plants it is expected that the noise levels in the area solely due to the production process will not impact on existing noise levels at local sensitive areas.

Environmental Impact Statement. 11 - 15 Lagan Cement Ltd, Kinnegad, Co. Meath.

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Predicted traffic noise at local dwellings associated with the development is minimal. Noise associated with this number of vehicle movements will be insignificant with respect to the existing HGV movements in the area associated with all other commercial and industrial activity. If noise monitoring indicates an increase in emission levels from the facility the incident will be reported and investigated. Regular and effective maintenance by trained personnel of all items of plant and machinery will ensure that no unnecessary noise is generated by their operation.

Alternative Fuels and Raw Materials The noise monitoring programme should be continued to ensure compliance with the IPPC licence limits at the boundary locations and at the noise sensitive locations.

11.5 RESIDUAL IMPACTS

A comprehensive assessment of the potential noise impacts on the receiving environment associated with these developments has been completed. There are no adverse noise impacts predicted at noise sensitive receptors in the vicinity of the site as a result of this development.

Environmental Impact Statement. 11 - 16 Lagan Cement Ltd, Kinnegad, Co. Meath.

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APPENDIX 11.1

PREDICTED NOISE LEVELS

AT NOISE SENSITIVE RECEPTORS

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NOISE PREDICTION AT NSR3OPERATIONAL PHASE

PREDICTION OF NOISE FROM STATIONARY PLANT [ACTIVITY LAEQ METHOD]

SCREENING REFLECTION

External noise level at 10m 68 1100 49.0 10 0 9.0 1 1 7.9

7.9 9

K h = 20log 10 (R/10)

(Activity duration / working period) t c = T t x F (t c )(10 0.1Li )K s = (25log 10 (R/10) - 2 0, 5, 10,

calculate 0, 3 L WA - adjustments

PLANT TYPE / NOISE SOURCE

List all noise sources Average Minimum distance to receptor, m

LAeq, AT 1m, dB

LAeq, AT 10m, dB

DISTANCE, mADJUSTMENTS (dB)

DISTANCE

RESULTANT LAeq,

dB

FRACTION ON TIME

ACTIVITY LAeq, 1 HR

SIGMA (t c )(10 0.1Li )

L Aeq,1hr = 10log 10 [1/1 Σ (t c )(10 0.1Li )

CORRECTIONS ACTIVITY LAeq, 1 HR

TO LAeq, 1 HR

L Aeq,1hr = 10log 10 [1/1 Σ (t c )(10 0.1Li )

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PAVING PLANT NOISE PREDICTION AT BRASSILSOPERATIONAL PHASE

PREDICTION OF NOISE FROM STATIONARY PLANT [ACTIVITY LAEQ METHOD]

SCREENING REFLECTION

Outside noise level at 10m 64.0 1130 49.3 10 0 4.7 1 1 2.9

2.9 5

ACTIVITY LAeq, 1 HR

SIGMA (t c )(10 0.1Li )

L Aeq,1hr = 10log 10 [1/1 Σ (t c )(10 0.1Li )

CORRECTIONS ACTIVITY LAeq, 1 HR

TO LAeq, 1 HR

L Aeq,1hr = 10log 10 [1/1 Σ (t c )(10 0.1Li )

ADJUSTMENTS (dB)

DISTANCE

RESULTANT LAeq,

dB

FRACTION ON TIMEPLANT TYPE / NOISE SOURCE

List all noise sources Average Minimum distance to receptor, m

LAeq, AT 1m, dB

LAeq, AT 10m, dB

DISTANCE, m

K h = 20log 10 (R/10)

(Activity duration / working period) t c = T t x F (t c )(10 0.1Li )K s = (25log 10 (R/10) - 2 0, 5, 10,

calculate 0, 3 L WA - adjustments

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TILE PLANT NOISE PREDICTION AT NSR8OPERATIONAL PHASE

PREDICTION OF NOISE FROM STATIONARY PLANT [ACTIVITY LAEQ METHOD]

SCREENING REFLECTION

Nise level at 10m 69.0 1150 49.5 10 0 9.5 1 1 8.9

8.9 9

ACTIVITY LAeq, 1 HR

SIGMA (t c )(10 0.1Li )

L Aeq,1hr = 10log 10 [1/1 Σ (t c )(10 0.1Li )

CORRECTIONS ACTIVITY LAeq, 1 HR

TO LAeq, 1 HR

L Aeq,1hr = 10log 10 [1/1 Σ (t c )(10 0.1Li )

ADJUSTMENTS (dB)

DISTANCE

RESULTANT LAeq,

dB

FRACTION ON TIMEPLANT TYPE / NOISE SOURCE

List all noise sources Average Minimum distance to receptor, m

LAeq, AT 1m, dB

LAeq, AT 10m, dB

DISTANCE, m

K h = 20log 10 (R/10)

(Activity duration / working period) t c = T t x F (t c )(10 0.1Li )K s = (25log 10 (R/10) - 2 0, 5, 10,

calculate 0, 3 L WA - adjustments

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NOISE PREDICTION AT NOISE SENSITIVE RECEPTORSHAUL ROADSMETHOD FOR MOBILE PLANT USING A REGULAR WELL DEFINED ROUTE

NSR2 94 780 8 20 28 10 18

NSR3 94 800 8 20 28 10 18

NSR4 94 990 8 20 27 10 17

NSR5 94 380 8 20 31 10 21

NSR6 94 600 8 20 29 10 19

NSR7 94 1410 8 20 26 10 16

NSR8 94 1150 8 20 26 10 16

NOISE SENSITIVE RECPTORS

LWA, dB VD LAeq, 1 HR SCREENING

List all noise sources Maximum Minimum distance to receptor, m

Vehicle movements per hour

average vehicle speed, km/hr

L Aeq,1hr = LWA-33+10logQ-10logV-

10logD

10dB screening from bunds

RESULTANT LAeq, 1 HR

L Aeq,1hr - 10dB

Q

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APPENDIX 11.2

MAP OF MONITORING LOCATIONS

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phalt

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