Noise Insulation Program

Noise Insulation Program

 

The Noise Insulation Program (NIP) is an integral part of ALA’s comprehensive Operational Noise Management Plan, developed by ALA. The NIP has been developed to mitigate aircraft noise on buildings and a reduction in noise exposure for the eligible surrounding communities. The program will address residential buildings located in the areas with night-time (22:00-07:00) environmental noise levels exceeding 60 dBA. 

ALA’s Program is grounded in technical environmental noise studies and designed to comply with the ICAO Balance Approach, as one of the integral noise management tools and international standards and Good International Industry Practice (GIIP) and follows the practice applied at other noise insulation programs around the world.

Eligibility Criteria

The houses eligible for participation in the Noise Insulation Program will be determined in accordance with the noise level map below. Some properties may not be eligible for insulation due to special conditions. Houses that were built before March 31, 2022 will be eligible for participation in the program. Also, houses eligible for participation in the program must be legalized. Participation of houses that do not meet these requirements, but are located in areas of increased noise exposure, will be considered by ALA on an individual basis.



Prioritization of Noise Insulation

To ensure a fair and effective program, ALA has adopted a systematic approach for prioritization of houses to be insulated. This involves considering various factors, such as noise impact, high-impact areas, vulnerable groups, existing insulation, adherence to legal and technical criteria, and budget considerations, being based on community consultations.

Noise Insulation Process

The noise insulation process will follow a systematic approach to ensure Program effectiveness. The process involves evaluation of the noise and applicant’s data, selection of the noise insulation materials, and implementation. Community engagement will be maintained throughout the process. As part of this program, prioritization will be given to households meeting specific criteria. The below steps outline the process:  
1.    Community Outreach: dissemination of information about the program by airport employees among the local population, receiving requests and questions about the program, providing consultations, obtaining consent for participation via the WhatsApp number and email address indicated below.
2.    Thorough Survey and Evaluation: An acoustic engineer will measure the noise level inside and outside the house, analyze the data, and write up the results in a report. A noise insulation contractor will inspect the house, study its technical specifications, and based on the noise level results, develop a plan including specific sound insulation measures, cost estimates, and deadlines for each house.
3.    Selection of Materials: If necessary, materials such as window structures with improved soundproofing characteristics, mineral wool slabs, etc. can be used. Depending on the location and type of house, insulation measures may differ for each house.
4.    Post-Construction Testing: A percentage of completed noise insulation works will undergo post-construction acoustical testing to validate the achieved noise reduction levels.

Noise Insulation Methods 

The approach to noise insulation involves assessing homes for their soundproofing potential. Some homes may be able to use soundproofing windows, while other homes may require soundproofing materials such as mineral wool slabs, depending on the original building material. These materials can improve noise and thermal insulation. The density of the soundproofing depends on the results of the noise assessment and can vary in thickness. Decorative facades will be retained, if any, with documentation of the condition before and after the work.

Community Engagement and Communication

ALA values public participation and will involve residents throughout the process. Local residents will be informed through information sheets distributed by airport staff, the airport's official website (alaport.com), and via WhatsApp chat with an airport employee. Local akimats will play an important role in notifying residents.

Application Process

Residents who believe that noise is creating problems for their homes should contact an airport employee using contact details below, agree to participate in the program, provide their full name and home address, and receive consultation on the program and next steps and stages.  

Transparency and Feedback

We are committed to maintaining transparency and accountability throughout the Program. Feedback from residents will be carefully considered, and any issues will be addressed promptly to ensure the success of the Noise Insulation Program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please follow the link for Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) and Glossary (www.alaport.com )

Contact Information

For questions regarding the Noise Insulation Program, you can contact us by phone + 7 708 115 0514 or by email to [email protected].

Sincerely, Almaty International Airport