CHARTERED INDUSTRIES OF SINGAPORE PTE. LTD. (Noise nuisance)

Mr Goh Chee Wee asked the Minister for the Environment whether he is convinced that the noise generated during the ammunition quality control testings conducted by the Chartered Industries of Singapore Pte. Ltd. is excessive for the locality: and what actions are being taken to reduce the noise level and to minimize the nuisance caused to the residents.

The Minister for the Environment (Mr Ong Pang Boon): Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, the testing of ammunition at the Chartered Industries at Boon Lay Road has been going on since 1967. These testings are carried out daily from 9.00 am to 2.30 pm and from 3.30 pm to 8.30 pm under controlled conditions. They create noise at levels of about 70-74 decibel (dB) at the residential flats nearby. The noise levels are slightly higher than the background noise level of 64- ,70 dB in the locality. The noise level caused by the testings is no higher than the noise caused by the heavy vehicle moving along Jalan Boon Lay.

Nevertheless, Chartered Industries has been advised to minimize the noise. They are taking action to appoint an acoustic consultant to carry out a noise control study at the firing range with the intention of reducing the noise level. They will also be required to adjust the time of testing to minimize the nuisance caused to the residents.