By the sheer nature of its functioning, there are certain rules and
regulations that the DG Sets fall in. The fundamental functions of these
regulations are to curb the noise pollution that DG Sets may cause.
For instance the noise standards for DG Sets (15-500 KVA) should be
less than, 94+10 log10 (KVA), dB (A), at the manufacturing stage. This level
should fall by 5 dB (A) every five years. These rules are not just for the
manufacturer. There is a need for mandatory acoustic enclosure/acoustic
treatment of room for stationary DG sets (of 5 KVA and above). The acoustic
enclosure/acoustic treatment of the room should be designed for minimum 25 dB (A)
Insertion Loss or for meeting the ambient noise standards, whichever is on the
higher side. The measurement for Insertion Loss may be done at different points
at 0.5m from the acoustic enclosure/room, and then averaged. The DG set should
also be provided with proper exhaust muffler with Insertion Loss of minimum 25
dB (A).
For DG sets of 5 KVA and above, the manufacturer should offer to the user a
standard acoustic enclosure of 25 dB(A) Insertion Loss and also a suitable
exhaust muffler with Insertion Loss of 25 dB(A). Meanwhile the user should make
efforts to bring down the noise levels due to the DG set, outside his premises,
within the ambient noise requirements by proper sitting and control measures.
The total sound power level of a DG set, at the user's end, needs to be
within 2 dB(A) of the total sound power level of the DG set, at the manufacturing stage. Installation of a DG
set needs to be strictly in compliance with the recommendation of the DG set
manufacturer. Users are expected to set and follow a proper routine and
preventive maintenance procedure for the DG set, which would help prevent noise
levels of the DG set from deteriorating with use.
Additionally the generator sets
above 5KVA are not allowed to be operated in residential areas between the
hours from 10.00 p.m. to 6.00 a.m. The only exceptions to this rule are the
generator sets of Group Housing Societies and Multi-storey residential
apartments". The diesel generator sets above the capacity of 5 KVA in all areas
residential/commercial/industrial shall operate only with the mandatory
acoustic enclosures and other standards prescribed in the Environment
(Protection) Rules, 1986. Diesel generator sets used in social gatherings and public functions
shall be permitted only if they have installed mandatory acoustic enclosures
and adhere to the prescribed standards for noise and emission as laid down in
the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986. Flouting of these rules may land the
user/manufacturer under trouble. It may be a punishment of imprisonment for a
term which may extend to five years with fine which may extend to one lakh
rupees, or with both.
So while we use DG Sets to ensure our comfort, we need to ensure
compliance with various factors so that the experience is as pleasant for those
living around.
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