Industrial Noise Control

Our role in the project

During the initial assessment, we took measurements of the background and ambient noise levels surrounding the laboratory, and of the noise levels from the mechanical plant that had been installed. Measurements were made over the course of a week to capture noise sensitive day, evening and night time operations during the weekdays and weekends.

Based on our onsite environmental and equipment noise surveys, we generated a three dimensional computer model of the external plant areas. We used this model to assess the effectiveness of an acoustic screen and determine how high it should be. Following the installation works, we carried out verification measurements at the same locations to assess how effective the works had been.

Specific considerations

• Limitations were placed on the design of the noise barrier due to the storage of liquid nitrogen in the area. The risk of leakage meant a gap must be left at the base of the noise barrier, thus reducing the performance.
• The laboratory provides an acute emergency service as well as a regular maintenance service, meaning we had to allow for normal operations to continue throughout the assessment and mitigation works period.
• The laboratory was applying for planning permission which the planning authority would not grant unless the noise level issue was resolved, due to the adjacent residential estate.

Acoustic features of this project

As we were initially engaged to assist the client in acquiring planning permission from the local authority, we had to help reduce noise emissions to an appropriate level. Through the implementation of a bespoke designed acoustic noise barrier and as a result of the works that were carried out, we were able to demonstrate to the satisfaction of the local authority that noise emissions were appropriately reduced.

Through our willingness to spend time with the client, we had a thorough understanding of what the problem was and were equipped to develop a practical solution that met both the requirements of the laboratory and the local authority. As a result, the laboratory acquired the necessary planning permission.

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