Is construction noise inevitable? Not anymore. Future Power Systems (FPS) is redefining site power with quieter, cleaner energy solutions.
The Growing Importance of Noise Management in Construction
The construction industry has evolved from treating noise as an unavoidable byproduct to recognising it as a critical issue requiring regulation and mitigation. Today, companies must adhere to strict noise control standards to protect workers, the surrounding community, and the environment—all while maintaining productivity.
Construction activities are notorious for generating high levels of noise, often exposing workers to hazardous conditions. Noise levels on construction sites typically range between 80 and 120 decibels (dBA), depending on the specific activities undertaken. These levels frequently exceed the occupational safety limit of 85 dBA set by organisations like the Safe Work Australia, placing construction workers at a heightened risk of noise-induced hearing loss and other health issues.¹
Chronic exposure to excessive noise has been linked to stress, reduced concentration, and unsafe behaviours among workers.² This places emphasis on the need for proactive strategies that go beyond compliance, really prioritising both worker welfare and overall site efficiency.
Sources and Impacts of Construction Noise
Construction noise predominantly originates from heavy machinery and auxiliary systems powering onsite needs, such as offices, lunchrooms, and restroom facilities. The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) emphasises that "loud and ongoing noise can impact the quality of people's lives and cause stress,"³ an observation particularly relevant to urban construction sites where operations may disrupt nearby communities.
Excessive noise also diminishes productivity by contributing to fatigue and reduced morale among workers, further demonstrating the necessity of effective noise management strategies.
Diesel generators typically operate at a noise level of around 75–85 dB(A). To put this into perspective, imagine the constant hum of a vacuum cleaner running continuously in your site lunchroom. Listen here to experience what that sounds like.
Managing Construction Noise with Hybrid and Renewable Solutions
Technological advancements now enable construction companies to limit noise pollution significantly, particularly through the adoption of hybrid power systems. Systems like FPS’s Portable Solar Hybrid Generators offer a dual advantage: sustainable energy generation and noise reduction.
The FPS20-10 Portable System, for example, integrates solar power with energy storage capabilities, allowing it to operate silently when running on solar or battery power. This hybrid design minimises reliance on diesel generators, substantially reducing both noise levels and greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, these systems are ideal for urban construction projects, where strict noise regulations often limit nighttime operations. By leveraging quieter technologies, construction companies can extend work hours without compromising community relationships or worker wellbeing.
The FPS20-10 is particularly suited to remote locations, combining 10kW of solar power with the capacity to expand through additional ground-mounted arrays. As Australia’s most powerful containerised portable solar hybrid system, it delivers tangible benefits, including lower operational costs, reduced CO2 emissions, and extended maintenance intervals. The system’s silent operation ensures not only regulatory compliance but also a healthier acoustic environment for workers and local communities.
Conclusion
Comprehensive noise reduction strategies are no longer optional in construction; they are a cornerstone of regulatory compliance, environmental stewardship, and operational efficiency. Hybrid power solutions like FPS’s Portable Systems exemplify how the industry can balance sustainability with productivity, mitigating the harmful effects of noise pollution while meeting economic and environmental targets. Investing in quieter technologies is not just an ethical imperative—it is a strategic decision for a more sustainable and quiet future.
Footnotes
E. Sellappan, "Noise Effects of Generator Sets at Construction Sites," International Journal of Occupational Safety and Health 3, no. 2 (2014): 12–17, https://doi.org/10.3126/ijosh.v3i2.6145.
Alvyn Prayogo et al., "Noise Disturbance Increases Negative Emotions and Unsafe Behaviour among Construction Workers," International Journal of Construction Management (2024): 1–8, https://doi.org/10.1080/15623599.2024.2389591.
Environmental Protection Authority, “Noise Policy,” accessed November 19, 2024, https://www.epa.gov.au/noise.
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