Site Odour Survey
What It Is
A Site Odour Survey involves on-the-ground assessment of odours around a facility or development site. Trained assessors use recognised sniff-testing and FIDOL (Frequency, Intensity, Duration, Offensiveness, Location) criteria to evaluate odour presence and impact. Surveys provide real-time evidence of odour conditions and help demonstrate compliance with Environmental Permit requirements or planning conditions.
Why It Matters — Risks Without It
- ❌ Complaints escalating to statutory nuisance investigations
- ⚠️ Enforcement or fines if odour breaches permit conditions
- 📣 Community opposition and reputational harm
- 🧾 Planning delays if odour evidence is missing or inadequate
What’s Measured
- Odour intensity, frequency, and character at and beyond site boundaries
- Receptor sensitivity (residential, commercial, or public areas)
- Weather conditions influencing odour dispersion
- Sources and operational activities contributing to odour
How It Works
- Planning: Define survey scope and monitoring locations with reference to receptors.
- Field Survey: Conduct structured odour observations at agreed times and positions.
- Assessment: Record odour character and intensity using FIDOL criteria.
- Analysis: Interpret results against Environment Agency H4 Odour Guidance.
- Reporting: Provide a survey report with clear evidence and recommendations.
Who It’s For
- 🏭 Industrial operators managing odour-sensitive processes
- 🏗️ Developers requiring odour evidence for planning applications
- 🌍 Local authorities investigating nuisance concerns
- 🏢 Consultants and site managers needing real-time odour assessments
What You Get
- 📄 A professional odour survey report aligned with EA and planning requirements
- 📊 Field data recorded using FIDOL and industry-standard methods
- 🧠 Expert advice on mitigation and odour management
- ✅ Evidence to satisfy regulators, planners, and stakeholders
Measure it before it escalates: A Site Odour Survey gives you real-world evidence to manage odour proactively and stay compliant.
