Environmental Noise
Like other large industrial facilities, the infrastructure required to operate CERN’s accelerators generates environmental noise.
In 2018, CERN implemented an Noise footprint reduction policy and implementation strategy to ensure that noise levels at the site boundaries do not exceed a defined baseline.
Each year, noise monitoring campaigns are conducted at around 120 locations, both during daytime and night-time periods, to verify continued compliance with established limits. In addition, permanent monitoring stations provide 24/7 real-time measurements at key locations.
As part of its commitment to continuously reduce its environmental impact, CERN has adopted new objectives under the Horizon 2030 environmental programme, including reducing residential noise “hotspots”, defined as areas where ambient noise caused by CERN installations exceeds 40 dB(A). To achieve this objective, noise mitigation measures will be implemented during Long Shutdown 3 (LS3).
CERN also maintains regular communication with local authorities to ensure that future residential developments take into account the proximity of existing technical infrastructure, incorporating lessons learned from past planning decisions.
Further Information
The CERN Acoustic Service, within the Environmental Protection section, provides advice and technical support on health, safety, and environmental risks related to noise.
CERN personnel can find detailed information on the management of noise at CERN, from occupational health perspectives, on the dedicated safety risks webpage.
Contact: acoustic.service@cern.ch
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| Acoustic monitoring at LHC point 2 near Saint-Genis-Pouilly (left) and SPS BA4 near Prévessin (right). | |