Environmental Assessment
Volume B-3.5
Mine
Noise
Ambatovy Project
72
January 2006
attenuation to within ± 3 dBA. Supplier literature and third-party publications do
not verify this level of accuracy for the CadnaA model. To validate that the
CadnaA model meets the ISO standard, an independent study was done. This
study verified the model calculates the ISO method correctly and that simulations
of outdoor noise levels match field measurements of a known source to within
± 3 dBA.
3.5.4.9 Monitoring Plans
Since noise impacts are predicted to be low to negligible, a monitoring program
for noise is not considered necessary. As part of the ongoing community
relations program, a process for addressing noise complaints will be developed.
Should a noise complaint be received during project operations, an investigation
will be conducted to identify the source of the noise and determine possible
solutions, if necessary. The investigation may include measurement/monitoring,
interviews or modelling.
3.5.5
Conclusions
Key Question N-1 asked: What Effect Will Noise from the Ambatovy Mine
Activity Have on Sensitive Receptors? The effects of project noise levels were
determined by:
•
establishing the existing noise levels at specific receptors for noise;
•
predicting the amount of sound generated by the major sources of sound
from the project; and
•
evaluating the resulting noise levels at specific receptors.
Low to negligible impacts were predicted for the project. All predicted noise
levels met the World Bank criteria at the three specific receptors identified for
the assessment. Baseline noise levels will not change for Sahamalotra.
Low-impact magnitudes were predicted for Behontsa and Berano as baseline
noise levels are expected to increase by up to 4 dBA. Since World Bank criteria
are met but a change in baseline noise levels is expected, the effects of project
noise are considered to be of low environmental consequence.
