Noise and Vibration Management

Noise and vibration are inherent in mining, from blasting and drilling to ore handling and heavy vehicles. MMG manage these impacts to protect workforce health, community amenity and wildlife, using practical planning, monitoring, engineering controls and engagement tailored to each site.

MMG delivers consistent performance against site criteria, low community disturbance, healthy hearing outcomes for our workforce, and habitats able to support wildlife with minimal acoustic stress—achieved through thoughtful design, responsive operations and respectful engagement.

Baseline studies establish existing conditions and identify sensitive receptors, including in homes, schools, health facilities, cultural heritage places and habitats where noise can affect fauna behaviour. Predictive modelling simulates new or expanded activities, considering terrain, weather and equipment profiles to forecast noise contours and vibration propagation, guiding design and scheduling choices.

We design our operations to be as quiet as possible. This means using sound barriers, acoustic covers and quieter equipment wherever we can. Electric vehicles and machinery help reduce noise and vibration compared to diesel alternatives. We keep equipment well-maintained to prevent unnecessary noise and plan blasting carefully to minimise impact. Where possible, we schedule high-noise activities at times that cause the least disruption, and manage traffic routes to avoid sensitive areas.

MMG sites use real‑time and periodic monitoring for noise and vibration. Portable meters and fixed stations validate models and guide adjustments which enable us to modify our blast designs, add temporary barriers or reschedule tasks to favourable meteorological windows. Trigger thresholds prompt immediate response and mobile teams can deploy rapid mitigation for short‑duration works.

Employee exposure is managed through engineering controls, administrative measures (task rotation, quiet rooms) and personal protective equipment (PPE) where residual risk remains. Audiometric testing supports early detection, and training covers correct hearing protection use, equipment housekeeping and quiet work practices. Electric equipment can reduce both noise and vibration compared to diesel equivalents, enhancing underground conditions.

MMG notify communities ahead of high‑impact activities, share indicative blasting schedules and coordinate convoy movements to reduce cumulative noise in populated areas. Engagement is culturally sensitive and responsive to local priorities, such as school hours, ceremonies or hospital quiet times, and addresses site‑specific concerns raised through accessible grievance channels.

Where species are sensitive to disturbance, we integrate seasonal constraints (e.g., nesting periods), increase buffers and adjust timing to reduce acoustic disruption. Vegetation belts and topographic screening provide long‑term attenuation and habitat enhancement, complementing technical noise barriers.