If the poly V belt of a mercedes 320 is removed, and the engine is started, can it affect the engine in anyway?

My mechanic removed the poly V belt of my ML 320, because he wanted to confirm if the 'engine noise' he is hearing comes from the belt. in the process, he started the engine to confirm the noise. However, on my way home, I hear a noise coming from around the base of the wiper blades and I am wondering what noise it is and if the removal of the belt caused it.