Noise Emission Standards
The RTA strongly advocates tighter vehicle noise standards. In 2002-03 new noise standards for light and heavy vehicles were introduced. These standards had not been updated for more than 15 years. A new Australian Design Rule, ADR 83/00, was gazetted in March 2003, which introduces more stringent noise limits for new vehicles sold in Australia. The new noise standards will take effect from 2005 and will mean new cars are 3dB quieter, while new trucks and buses will be between 4-7dB quieter than current standards. The new standards include a ‘signature’ noise level that is recorded and unique for each vehicle model. These model specific standards will form the basis for enforcement of noise standards in the future. The signature approach is designed to minimise excessive noise caused by poorly maintained or modified exhausts.
Heavy Vehicle Engine Brake Noise
The RTA is contributing to the development of a regulatory framework by the National Transport Commission (NTC), which will address the in-service use of noisy engine brakes. The RTA has contributed to research by the NTC to develop a test capable of identifying excessively noisy engine brakes. In May 2003, noise testing of engine brakes was undertaken in locations around NSW, such as Ballina and Sydney, as part of this project. This testing has helped the NTC to develop a noise measurement procedure and assessment criteria that objectively identifies excessively noisy engine brakes.
More information on this work can be obtained on the NTC website http://www.ntc.gov.au
Back to top