Delayed delivery of materials for noise measures

The Swedish Transport Administration is currently facing challenges when it comes to implementing noise protection measures in respect of vents, window glass and doors as per the intended schedule. The world situation, the impact of the war in Ukraine and the pandemic mean we are currently experiencing long delivery times, and this is affecting our scheduled actions.

Delivery times much longer than usual

Normal delivery times are from six to twelve weeks. But delivery times are now up to six months. This results in knock-on effects where deliveries do not reach manufacturers on time, which ultimately affects planned actions.

We are working with existing materials and implementing the measures we have the materials for. We have a schedule for the implementation of noise reduction measures. Our ambition is to implement these measures as scheduled, but the current situation means that many measures will be delayed. We are sorry about this and will try to resolve the matter as soon as the materials are available to us.

Noise reduction measures – background

The number of people exposed to outdoor noise in excess of the 55 dB(A) guide value for outdoor equivalent noise level is increasing. This is mainly due to an increase in roadworks, increased urban migration and increased construction in noisy environments. High noise levels over a long period of time have an adverse impact on health.

This is why the Swedish Transport Administration has an action programme so that it can constantly manage noise from state roads and railways. 

The Swedish Transport Administration offers noise protection measures for people who are most exposed to noise. We are working to reduce the number of people exposed to traffic noise above the guide values by 50 per cent by 2030 (compared to 2015), and to ensure that nobody is exposed to noise levels more than 10 dB above the guide values.

Our goals and ambitions

Our long-term goal is to implement measures so that significantly fewer people are exposed to noise from state roads and railways. Our ambition is to ensure that 15,800 people benefit from noise reduction measures between 2022 and 2024. 

The Swedish Transport Administration implements noise protection measures worth hundreds of millions of Swedish kronor every year in order to protect local residents from traffic noise.

Common measures to prevent indoor noise include ensuring that window glass, vents and doors have good soundproofing. Another measure involves installing noise barriers outdoors if necessary.

The Swedish Transport Administration is working systematically and methodically to reduce disruption due to noise. This is an important element in our efforts to reduce risks to human health.