Construction Working Hours in Residential Areas, Singapore: Everything You Need to Know

Introduction

Construction work is an essential part of Singapore's development, but it can also be disruptive to residents in residential areas. The government has implemented regulations to minimize the impact of construction noise and dust, but it is important for residents to be aware of the working hours and noise levels that they can expect.

Construction Working Hours in Residential Areas

• Weekdays: 7am to 7pm
• Saturdays: 8am to 1pm
• Sundays and public holidays: No construction work is allowed

Noise Levels during Construction Work

The government has set limits on the noise levels that are allowed during construction work. These limits vary depending on the time of day and the type of construction work being carried out.

• Weekdays: 70 decibels (dB) during the day and 60 dB at night
• Saturdays: 65 dB during the day and 55 dB at night
• Sundays and public holidays: 50 dB

Exceptions to the Working Hours

There are some exceptions to the construction working hours in residential areas. These exceptions include:

• Emergency repairs: Construction work can be carried out at any time to repair essential services, such as water pipes and electricity lines.
• Urgent construction work: Construction work can be carried out outside of the normal working hours if it is urgently needed to prevent danger to life or property.
• Permits: The government may issue permits for construction work to be carried out outside of the normal working hours if it is necessary for the completion of the project.

How to Minimize the Impact of Construction Noise

There are a number of things that residents can do to minimize the impact of construction noise. These include:

• Closing windows and doors: This will help to block out noise from outside.
• Using earplugs or noise-canceling headphones: This can help to reduce the level of noise that you hear.
• Creating a white noise environment: This can help to mask the noise from construction work.
• Spending time in quiet areas: This can help to reduce your exposure to noise.

What to Do if You Are Disturbed by Construction Noise

If you are disturbed by construction noise, you should first try to contact the contractor and ask them to reduce the noise levels. If this does not work, you can contact the National Environment Agency (NEA) to file a complaint.

The NEA's Role in Construction Noise Control

The NEA is responsible for enforcing the construction noise regulations in Singapore. The NEA can investigate complaints about construction noise and take enforcement action if necessary.

The Future of Construction Noise Control

The government is committed to reducing the impact of construction noise on residents. The NEA is currently working on a number of initiatives to improve noise control, including:

• Developing new noise abatement technologies: The NEA is working with researchers to develop new technologies that can reduce the noise levels from construction work.
• Encouraging the use of quieter construction methods: The NEA is encouraging contractors to use quieter construction methods, such as using electric tools instead of pneumatic tools.
• Increasing public awareness of construction noise regulations: The NEA is working to increase public awareness of the construction noise regulations and the steps that residents can take to minimize the impact of noise.

Conclusion

Construction noise is a reality of life in a growing city like Singapore. However, the government is committed to reducing the impact of noise on residents. By understanding the construction working hours and noise levels, and by taking steps to minimize the impact of noise, residents can help to ensure that construction work does not disrupt their lives.