Decree-Law No. 146/2006 on noise assessment and management.

This Decree-Law, composed of 18 articles and six Annexes, is divided in five Chapters. It introduces in the national legal order EC Directive No. 2002/49/EC, of 25 June 2002. In particular, it provides noise strategic maps defining environmental noise exposure and assessment methods using European standard parameters and commonly accepted indicators. Special attention is devoted to public information on environmental noise and its effects. Finally, it requires the adoption of action plans based on noise strategic maps in order to prevent and reduce environmental noise when the exposure levels reach hazardous standards for human health. Annexes provide noise indicators, noise strategic maps, assessment methods, minimum requirements for noise strategic maps and action plans.