New Zealand ports are collaborating to tackle noise generated from vessels with one particular ship singled out.
In Port Nelson, Safeen Prime, a vessel contracted by shipping line ANL, will have work carried out to mitigate the noise it generates.
Due to recent shipping challenges, ANL contracted Safeen Prime to increase cargo capacity and the vessel is scheduled to visit Nelson approximately every three weeks starting from this month.
Ports around New Zealand and their communities have experienced the same noise issues from this vessel.
The ports are collaborating by sharing information and experiences within their communities and collectively working with acoustic consultants to address the issue with the shipping line.
Port Nelson chief executive Hugh Morrison says the additional freight capacity will be a big boost for the region but tackling the noise is a priority.
“We are working with the shipping line to rectify the issue, and a plan has been put in place,” he says.
The shipping line and the ship owner have committed to installing a reactive silencer, which was proven to be successful in the past at resolving similar issues on other vessels. Port Nelson has requested that the measure is implemented as soon as possible, it says.
The ports are waiting for the shipping line to confirm the timeframe for the reactive silencer. In the meantime, the ship has modified funnels on the generators to reduce noise and implemented operational procedures designed to reduce noise levels until the reactive silencer is installed.
“Reducing noise levels from the port is a priority for Port Nelson,” Morrison adds.
“We will continue to monitor the noise impacts from Safeen Prime and assess the temporary mitigation measures during its upcoming visits.”
