The permissible noise levels for factory premises are listed under the Environmental Pollution Control (Boundary Noise Limits For Factory Premises) Regulations, 1999.
The permissible noise levels for construction premises are listed under the Environmental Pollution Control (Control of Noise at Construction Sites) Regulations, 1999.

The regulations were amended on 17 May 2001 to incorporate a new set of limits for noise levels at night from construction projects located near residential buildings. These new limits have come into force since 1 Oct 2001.

The permissible noise levels for residential premises are listed under the Miscellaneous Offences Act (Public Order and Nuisance) and Penal Code Public Entertainments Act (Chapter 257). In cases involving noise from residential premises, the police have powers to deal with noise as a breach of peace. However, NEA can also take action under the Environment Public Health Act, if the noise is deemed to constitute a public health nuisance.

Construction work at a site may proceed at any time of the day so long as the noise does not exceed the maximum noise levels permitted.

For a summary of the maximum noise levels permitted at construction sites, please see Appendix 1.

Members of the public can call the NEA's Call Centre toll-free line at 1800-CALL NEA (1800-2255 632) to give feedback on noise and smell nuisance (e.g. chemical, gas or others).

Noise or sound is measured in decibels, dB. The basic instrument used for the measuring of noise is the sound level meter. This instrument is designed to respond in approximately the same way as the human ear and gives objective assessment of sound pressure level.

Typical sound levels measured in the surrounding are as follows:

library - 35 dB

office - 60- 65 dB

normal traffic noise 70 - 80 dB

Airport (plane take off) - 120 dB

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