Will there be a fine for noise from a generator: explanation from the Cabinet of Ministers
18 June 2024 13:45
The Cabinet of Ministers has denied media and telegram channels’ reports of fines for noise from generators. The government noted that such requirements do not apply during emergencies, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports
on 16 and 17 June, some media outlets and telegram channels reported that, according to sanitary and hygienic standards approved by the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, generator owners are subject to fines for exceeding noise levels.
The government said that the information disseminated by some media outlets was not true. The owners of generators will not be fined for exceeding the permissible noise level from their devices.
“According to Healthcare Order No. 463, the permissible sound levels in residential buildings are 35-55 dBA during the day and 25-35 dBA at night, and 50-60 dBA during the day and 40-50 dBA at night in residential areas. However, these requirements do not apply during the liquidation of the consequences of accidents, natural disasters, or other emergencies. As well as in cases where, for example, noisy appliances and other equipment ensure the vital activity of residential and non-residential public buildings,”
– the Government Online telegram channel said.
The Cabinet of Ministers urged people to learn how to reduce the noise level from a generator and reduce vibrations.
How to reduce noise from a generator?
- The cheapest and easiest way is to install the generator at a distance of six metres from residential buildings and sleeping quarters.
- Surround the generator with noise and acoustic screens.
- Equip the generator with a special casing with internal noise insulation and exhaust gas exhaust.
- Additional sound insulation can be created by covering the generator with sandbags. Place them around the generator so that it is visible from a distance of one and a half metres. Such a soundproof circle of bags will reduce noise from the generator. It is important that the distance from the switched on generator to the bags is at least half a metre.
In addition to noise, generators can create vibrations that are transmitted to building walls and furniture. This causes discomfort to people in the vicinity of the vibrations and can even cause psychophysiological disorders.
To reduce vibration, you should:
- Install the generator as far away from buildings as possible.
- Place the generator on a level surface, preferably a solid and stable prepared foundation.
- Place a coarse rubber mat under the generator.
- Use special shock absorbers or insulating materials to absorb vibrations.
Generator operation worsens air quality by emitting substances such as carbon monoxide, carbon oxides, nitrogen oxides, sulphurous anhydride, acrolein, benzopyrene, etc. This has a negative impact on lung and heart health, especially in people with chronic illnesses, and can lead to poisoning, especially in confined or poorly ventilated areas.
Carbon monoxide isparticularly dangerous because it is colourless, odourless, and tasteless, making it impossible to detect without special equipment. At the same time, carbon monoxide is deadly when inhaled and affects the body even in low concentrations.
To protect yourself from the negative effects of emissions:
- Install the generator outdoors where there is good air exchange.
- Install the generator away from windows and building entrances – carbon monoxide can enter the room through openings if the generator is too close.
- Perform timely maintenance on generators to prevent leaks and malfunctions.
- Change the filters on time.
- Fill the generator with good quality fuel that does not contain lead compounds.
