London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972
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Hints from the Health Department. Leaflet from the archive of the Society of Medical Officers of Health. Credit: Wellcome Collection, London
Camberwell 1958
[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Camberwell.
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12
NUISANCE FROM NOISE
This is an age of noise and in conjunction with speed it has
an influence on the tension and unrest which is characteristic of
our times. Publicity has been given to the excessive noise from
aircraft, especially since the development of the "jet," and there
is greater noise on the roads with the increase of mechanical
transport.
Although of far less intensity, noises from factory machinery
can be most annoying, particularly where work is carried on at
night and at the weekend. The "whine" or "hum"is especially
irritating, and is a sound to which people do not easily become
conditioned. It is not surprising, therefore, that complaints
about noises are on the increase.
Although in some cases complaints seem to have little
foundation, there are many instances where they appear to be
fully justified. Investigations are made, and very often visits
are paid at night or on Saturdays or Sundays. In all cases
consultations take place with the management of the factory
implicated, and considerable goodwill and co-operation has
always been obtained. In a number of cases, extensive works
have been carried out in an endeavour to abate the nuisance, but
unfortunately it is rarely possible to completely eliminate the
noise of machinery.
The following list gives some of the major complaints of noise nuisances received during 1958 together with the action taken.
| Nature of complaint | Action taken and result |
|---|---|
| 1. Noise from mechanical Hoist | Following representations to the management the hoist was overhauled and the noise thereby considerably reduced. No further complaint has been received. |
| 2. Noise from mechanical saw. | Investigation revealed that the noise was not excessive or unreasonable. Premises are being kept under constant observation. |
| 3. Noise from factory machinery | Alterations carried out to plant to reduce the noise. Still under observation. |
| 4. Noise from a room upstairs in a private house. | Investigation revealed that this was a disagreement between two tenants in the same house. No action called for by Council. |