Mining Noise Monitoring – Ardglen NSW | Field Noise Assessment – Advanced Acoustics

Context: Environmental Noise Compliance in NSW Mining Corridors

Noise monitoring was recently carried out near an active mining operation in Ardglen, NSW. This assessment formed part of a broader compliance and operational review in line with NSW EPA environmental noise guidelines and project-specific development consent conditions.

The area surrounding the Ardglen mine includes a mix of agricultural land, transport infrastructure, and rural properties—making it essential to understand how mine-related noise propagates beyond the immediate work zone.

Acoustic Setting – Ardglen Mine

Key environmental and acoustic features of the monitoring site included:

Open, grassy rural terrain adjacent to active mining infrastructure
Sparse vegetation, reducing sound absorption
Moderate elevation variation, contributing to long-distance propagation
Low ambient noise levels, making mining-related activity more perceptible

The site allowed for direct exposure to haul trucks, plant operations, and other key noise sources associated with open-cut mining.

Methodology: Mining Noise Monitoring – Ardglen NSW

The noise monitoring followed standard industry protocols and included:

✅ Use of Class 1 precision sound level meters
✅ 24-hour unattended environmental logging
✅ Microphones mounted on tripods with protective windshields
✅ Documentation of meteorological conditions (wind speed/direction, temperature)
✅ Site photographs and GPS data to validate monitoring context

This approach ensured reliable and representative acoustic data suitable for regulatory review and stakeholder engagement.

Monitoring Objectives

The noise monitoring aimed to:

✅ Assess noise levels during active mining hours
✅ Evaluate compliance with NSW Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997
✅ Support environmental reporting and operational transparency
✅ Provide a sound basis for any potential future mitigation or control measures

Field Image

Field-based environmental noise monitoring conducted near the Ardglen mine to measure operational sound levels.

About Ardglen

Located in the Liverpool Ranges of northern NSW, Ardglen is home to a long-established extractive industry presence. The area combines rural living, agriculture, and mineral resource development—creating an acoustic landscape where proactive noise management is critical to sustaining community trust and compliance with environmental standards.

Learn More

👉 NSW EPA – Noise Guidelines for Industry
👉 NSW Resources Regulator – Environmental Management & Compliance
👉 NSW Planning Portal – SEPPs for Environmental Compliance
👉 Mining Noise Assessments – Advanced Acoustics