Malta’s Police Do Not Have The Equipment To Measure Decibels Of Sound
A parliamentary question by PN Inclusion spokesperson Graziella Galea has revealed that the Police do not have the equipment necessary to measure decibel levels.
“Several of you have asked me how noise pollution is being addressed.”
“From a parliamentary question I asked, it turns out that the police do not have equipment to measure the decibel level of noises or disturbances” the MP explained.
“When someone reports excessive noise or disturbance, the police take action based on the provisions of the law and gathered evidence, and charges are brought against the offender, if appropriate.”
“From another parliamentary question I asked, it emerged that in two to three months, there were only five cases in St Paul’s Bay where fines were imposed. It’s a pity to hear so many complaints about noise!”
As a representative of St Paul’s Bay, Galea is referring to many complaints of excessive noise made in the area especially the Bora Bora Hotel, which organises party weekends in a residential area – across the road from an old people’s home.
In Malta, noise pollution is regulated under the Environment Protection Act (Chapter 549) and the Noise Control Regulations (Subsidiary Legislation 549.38).
These laws set limits on the amount of noise that can be emitted from various sources, such as vehicles, construction sites, and industrial facilities.
In order to comply with these regulations, businesses and organisations must conduct regular noise assessments to ensure that their operations are not causing excessive noise levels in the surrounding area.
Industries that may require noise pollution monitoring services include manufacturing facilities, power plants, construction sites, transportation providers, and entertainment venues such as concert halls and nightclubs.
In addition, residential and commercial developments may also require noise pollution studies to ensure that noise from nearby roads or other sources does not impact the health and wellbeing of residents.
Noise levels are based on international ISO standards.
Approximate consequences of noise levels
While it is positive that there are laws in place to regulate noise pollution, it is pointless to report an offence knowing that the police don’t have the means to legally prove the infraction in court.
This leads to countless abuse situations.
“While I thank the police for their work I appeal the government to provide the police with the necessary tools to effectively carry out their duties for the benefit of the citizens.”
Do you think that we have a problem with noise pollution in Malta?
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