Architects

We work with architects as part of building design teams on a regular basis. We support architects in the building design process. As acoustic consultants we can offer architects essential advice in a number of areas of architectural acoustics.

• Building Services Noise Control
• Sound Insulation Tests to BS2750 (ISO140) and BS5821 (ISO717) for Floors, Ceilings and Walls
• Advice on Building Regulation Guidelines with reference to Sound (Approved Document E)
• Advice on Sound Insulation and Building Envelope Design
• Sound Insulation Risk Assessment Audits regarding Conversion & Refurbishment Programmes
• Building Vibration Damage Criteria Assessments
• Advice on Planning Conditions with Regard to Noise (PPG24)
• Liaison with Local Authority Planning & Environmental Health Departments
• Environmental Noise & Vibration Impact Studies
• Noise & Vibration Monitoring
• Advice on Noise & Vibration Nuisance
• Advice on Noise & Vibration Nuisance

Building Services Noise Control
The internal and external noise emissions of the M&E services present a design problem which needs to be addressed. We can advise on the internal noise criteria, predict the noise ingress into the building and specify treatment if required.

Sound Insulation Tests to BS2750 (ISO140) and BS5821 (ISO717) for Floors, Ceilings and Walls
Sound insulation testing is a mainstay of our business and an important one in light of the proposed revisions to Approved Document E (2002). We are able to provide desktop studies of building design, comment on the construction design and make reference to the Building Regulation Standards and our extensive database of test information to advise on the sound insulation performance. We carry all the necessary test equipment and are currently involved in the House Builders Federation Robust Standard Detail process for the improvement of sound insulation in residential dwellings.

Advice on Building Regulation Guidelines with reference to Sound (Approved Document E)
With the recent proposed changes to the building regulations and in particular Approved Document E, acoustics is a hot topic, especially sound insulation and the extension of scope to which sound insulation criteria now apply. We can advise on the sound insulation requirements in residential, hotel, hostel, student accommodation schemes as well as schools, hospitals and commercial property.

Advice on Sound Insulation and Building Envelope Design
We offer specific advice on the party wall and floor construction as well as the protection requirements of the building envelope. We can offer desktop studies and field trial surveys to assist in the design process.

Sound Insulation Risk Assessment Audits regarding Conversion & Refurbishment Programmes
We have recently been developing a bespoke service for potential developers to assess the sound insulation requirements of conversion property prior to purchase. This is so the cost implications can be assessed before the building/property is bought and account can be made on the price offered. This minimises the “Risk” in taking on the development blind.

Building Vibration Damage Criteria Assessments
Inner city construction & demolition frequently has to occur adjacent to sensitive buildings which might suffer structural damage as a consequence. Careful monitoring regimes can show that vibration levels are within tolerance ranges and can alert the contractor when building damage criteria is likely to be exceeded. Remote monitoring and attended surveys can be designed to suit particular applications and we have extensive experience in monitoring sites where vibration is an issue.

Advice on Planning Conditions with Regard to Noise (PPG24)
We currently carry out several planning related surveys a month with regard to noise & vibration impact on both residential, public and commercial buildings. Our service starts with satisfying simple planning conditions with regard to acoustics to representation at Planning Appeals and Public Inquiries.

Liaison with Local Authority Planning & Environmental Health Departments
We are frequently asked to liaise with Local Authority officers where planning applications feature noise & vibration issues. The general objective is to talk to the LA to understand their concerns and the reasoning behind their requirements and conditions. We have regular contact with LA planning departments , environmental health sections and their officers.

Environmental Noise & Vibration Impact Studies
Where a development is likely to have it’s own impact on a local community e.g. a new factory or water works, we are able to provide predictions of the demolition phase, construction phase and the final operational phase of the scheme to the relevant authorities.

Noise & Vibration Monitoring
We offer a comprehensive monitoring package using the most modern equipment available. We can offer remote monitoring if required. Ad can tailor monitoring schemes to suit most budgets. We are also able to hire out a modest amount of modern noise & vibration monitoring equipment.

Advice on Noise & Vibration Nuisance
These can take place when complaints are received from a local sensitive property. Criteria representing building damage BS7385 and human response (BS6472) can be brought to bear on the prevailing conditions on site. In addition noise complaints can be assessed under section 61 limits (if applicable) or with reference to BS4142.

Advice on Noise & Vibration Control
We offer advice on acoustic noise control at source, environmental barriers such as fences or bunds. Soft ground attenuation and acoustic enclosures.