The 2019 winners of industry’s ‘Noise Oscars’ were announced this week at a ceremony at the Palace of Westminster.
In the 60th anniversary of the Noise Abatement Society (NAS), the 18th John Connell Awards recognised the efforts made by organisations to reduce noise pollution on local communities.
More than 270 recipients from local authorities, industry, organisations and individuals have now been honoured for the significant impact they have made to improve the aural environment.
This year’s event saw supermarket Tesco scoop the John Connell Silent Approach award, sponsored by Brigade Electronics UK.
The category recognises significant advances in industry awareness and best practice to reduce noise from operations and logistics.
It is for organisations which have developed proven noise-reduction programmes, whether through the adoption of quieter transport modes, low noise ancillary equipment, staff training or other pro-active noise awareness initiatives.
Tesco won the award for reducing noise pollution through the design, development and introduction of this equipment into their stores and distribution centres, and “setting new industry standards”.
The supermarket’s two year-project not only included a commitment to being a ‘Good Neighbour’, minimising noise associated with store deliveries, but also to reducing noise in the workplace to protect staff stress and hearing.
As part of this programme Tesco is replacing metal roll cages and dollies, the cause of major peak noise during the delivery process, with a new bespoke design with eco-friendly plastic components and low-noise castors which significantly reduces relative sound output by a massive 22dB.
By reducing noise pollution through the design, development and introduction of this equipment into their stores and distribution centres, the judges said Tesco has set a new industry benchmark for mobile supply chain equipment.
Benefits from this development also include overall lighter equipment, reduced Co2 emissions, reduced carbon footprint, reduced health and safety concerns, less failing parts, and reduced damage to produce.
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Gloria Elliott, Noise Abatement Society chief executive, said: “NAS applauds Tesco for setting a high standard for quiet delivery equipment across its commercial estate as part of a customer and resident care programme – a great example for other retailers to follow.”
Highly commended for the same category was Evander for its work with Highways England to mitigate the chronic effect of road noise on affected residents with the design of glazing and ventilation systems.
Contact the Noise Abatement Society to find out how to get involved with any noise-reduction initiatives, or to enter next year's John Connell Awards.
Caption: The winners of the Noise Abatement Society, John Connell Awards 2019 on the Terrace Pavilion, Palace of Westminster, at the House of Commons, London in the Noise Abatement Societies 60th year.
