As Rail Safety Week 2025 gets underway, Encompass Engineering is shining a light on the role that noise monitoring plays in ensuring a safer, and more efficient railway.
Noise isn’t just an environmental issue – it’s a safety risk. High noise levels can compromise on-site communication, increase stress and fatigue among workers, and spark complaints from nearby communities. That’s why Encompass Engineering has incorporated advanced noise monitoring into its service offering, using it not only to support compliance but to actively enhance the safety and well-being of those who build, operate and live near our railways.
“Our work is about more than ticking regulatory boxes,” said Josh Gilsenan, Operations Director at Encompass Engineering. “Noise monitoring helps identify risks before they become problems. It gives our clients the insights they need to operate safer sites, make smarter design decisions, and minimise the impact on surrounding communities. It’s a tool for prevention, not just measurement.”
Using high-precision technology, the Encompass team can monitor and analyse noise levels in real-time – whether during early-stage planning, live construction works, or day-to-day railway operations. This enables rail organisations to make quick and informed decisions to ensure that noise-related safety risks are flagged and addressed early.
Central to this is a suite of professional-grade equipment. Encompass Engineering deploys high-precision sound pressure level meters that offer both in-situ and remote monitoring, operation, and data download capabilities. Data can be collected continuously and securely, even from locations that are difficult or unsafe to access, enabling immediate analysis without needing to keep personnel on-site. For monitoring individual staff exposure, the team also offers lightweight, wearable dosimeters to support compliance in the workplace.
In support of Rail Safety Week, Encompass Engineering is encouraging the industry to view noise monitoring as a core part of safety – not just an environmental obligation. For those who already have teams in place, the equipment is also available to hire, giving organisations the flexibility to carry out their own monitoring while still benefiting from reliable, professional-grade results. Equipment hire includes setup support, guidance on use, and access to analysis tools, ensuring that internal teams can operate with the same confidence and accuracy.
Noise monitoring forms part of Encompass Engineering’s wider consultancy services, which include environmental assessments, engineering support, and quality inspections. With a strong background in railway operations, the team continues to support clients in delivering projects that prioritise safety, minimise environmental impact, and respect the needs of surrounding communities.
To find out how Encompass Engineering’s expertise in noise monitoring and equipment hire can help keep your next rail project safe, compliant, and on track, get in touch. Visit www.encompass-engineering.com for more information.