As we enter the season of festivity and goodwill, there are some situations that can severely test your patience over Christmas and New Year. Loud music is one of the main elements of the noise which assails the public at this time. Every bar, and many restaurants and smaller shops seem to compete with each other in making more noise, and so do the minibuses. The loud music in the minibuses is probably the nuisance which affects most citizens. It seems that many commercial folks feel that the greater the volume of noise they generate, the greater the number of customers they attract.
Noise is a daily occurrence. It can be described as unwanted or excessive sound, and includes vibrations which exceed permissible or allowable levels. Many people, especially noisemakers, are quick to think of noise as a by-product of recreation, their livelihood, or give no thought to it at all. Often, it’s the neighbour who is trying to sleep after a long day, or is desirous of having some quiet family time, who would raise an alarm or file a complaint with the relevant authorities. Whether we like it or not, noise is all around us, sources of noise are ever-present. Situations involving noise nuisances/disturbances often escalate when they become regular features.
Effects of noise on health
Frequent exposure to noise can have serious implications for human health, among which are included, but are not limited to: increased heart rate leading to elevated blood pressure, sleep deprivation, headaches and migraines, psychological triggers for people with PTSD, anxiety etc. Noise also affects animals: hearing loss, disruption of migratory patterns, inability to hear and escape from predators, and abandonment of territory and loss of ability to reproduce.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is mandated under the Environmental Protection Act, Chapter 20:05, Laws of Guyana, to stem the creation of pollution havens, and preserve and protect the integrity of the natural environment. Further, the Noise Management Regulations established in 2000 set standards and gave the Agency enforcement powers for noise management.
Activities producing noise from construction, installation, operation, modification or extension of any facility must be authorised. Anyone who wishes to operate a loudspeaker or any other sound-making device or equipment at a public space (barbecues, shows, nightclubs) or any private premises must seek permission from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Depending on the nature of the activity, the EPA grants two types of noise permits – Short Term Noise Permit and Long-Term Noise Permit.
What you need for a Short-Term Noise Permit
– Guyana Police Force approval:
– NDC approval
– Guyana Fire Service permit
– Proof of event (flyer, poster)
– Affidavit
– Proof of rental (if you are renting the space)
– $4000 fee
– ID of applicant
Kindly note that the EPA will not be issuing Short Term Noise Permits until further notice.
In fact, under the Environmental Protection (Noise Management) Regulations (2000), excessive emission of noise is an offence. Defaulters can be fined up to $700,000, and face up to one year of imprisonment. The regulations of 2000 were developed with the framework to manage noise pollution in the environment. Further, more than 40 officers of the Guyana Police Force were recently trained in noise management, which would enable the Noise Management Task Force to be better able to manage noise complaints.
As we move closer to the festive season, the Environmental Protection Agency advises citizens to desist from emitting noise at a level above the prescribed 100db decibel recreational limit. Contact your local authority and report all matters of noise pollution. Be vigilant, and exercise caution as we celebrate. Remember, your right to music is not your right to disturb others.
Remember to wear your mask, wash your hands, and follow all other guidelines prescribed for keeping safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.
You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O ECEA Programme, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: [email protected], follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.
