Noise

Noise Labelling

A Noise Labelling Working Group was established in 2008 to scope a consistent noise labelling scheme for noisy domestic articles. Portable garden equipment such as leaf blowers can be a significant source of noise nuisance and the Noise Labelling Working Group has recommended that any labelling, limit and noise testing requirements for this equipment be harmonised with the European Union Noise Directive. Air conditioners are also a significant source of noise nuisance in Australia but these items are not covered by the EU Noise Directive. 

In 2009, the Environment Protection Heritage Standing Committee engaged an acoustical consultant to investigate and report back on the noise labelling and testing options for domestic air conditioners. The report “Noise Labelling of Domestic Air Conditioners – Technical Advice” by Day Design Pty Ltd was accepted by the Standing Committee at its meeting on 21 May 2010, and can be downloaded below.

The Noise Labelling Working Group is consulting further with the air conditioner industry before finalising its recommendations on air conditioners.

Consultation Regulatory Impact Statement

EPH Standing Committee has agreed to the preparation of a draft Consultation Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) which explores policy options to introduce:

• noise labelling and limit requirements for certain portable equipment, and
• noise labelling requirements for air conditioners

The aim is to determine whether a noise labelling and limit scheme is warranted and which policy option or combination of options would have the greatest net benefit for the community. Suitably qualified and experienced consultants are sought to prepare a Consultation RIS for consideration by EPHSC and for release for public comment.

The draft Consultation RIS should meet the requirements in the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) Best Practice Regulation Guide for Ministerial Councils and National Standard Setting Bodies (October 2007).

Tenders have now closed (COB, 25 October 2010).