Noise Assessments
As a leading Noise and Acoustic Consultancy, inacoustic has undertaken thousands of Noise Assessments (otherwise known as Noise Impact Assessments) for sites and developments across the UK, Ireland and Europe. Often an essential part of the planning process, inacoustic carry out noise and vibration assessments for a huge range of reasons.
Our noise and vibration assessments are needed to accurately predict the impact of a new noise-generating development (or an existing specific noise source) upon a noise-sensitive receptor such as residential premises or to learn how a new noise-sensitive development might be adversely affected by existing noise from the environment. Often, both aspects have to be considered within the same assessment before the overall impact is fully understood and suitable mitigation strategies can be provided.
What is a Noise and Vibration Assessment?
A Noise and Vibration assessment typically starts with a detailed inspection of a development site or noise-sensitive receptor followed by the completion of an Environmental Noise Survey.
Once data has been collected and the on-site baseline noise levels are analysed, we assess the suitability of the proposed development based on our detailed understanding of the relevant British Standards, Local Authority Requirements and Assessment Guidelines.
We then make recommendations for noise mitigation measures, where appropriate, and prepare formal technical reports that detail the conclusions of our assessment and key recommendations.
Which Scheme Types Need a Noise Assessment?
Typically, the impact of man-made noise, including, intermittent noise (i.e. construction noise or transport noise), tonal noise (i.e. as noise from fixed-plant or machinery) or continuous noise (i.e. noise from road traffic or industrial processes) has to be considered, meaning that the following schemes often need a noise assessment:
Plant noise from industrial, retail, renewable energy and commercial developments;
Industrial, retail and commercial delivery noise;
Sporting venues and installations, including stadia, MUGAs, outdoor pitches, and sports halls;
Eateries including a kitchen extract, air handling or cooling units i.e. Restaurants or takeaways;
Mixed-use developments incorporating residential and commercial, industrial or retail;
Venues which generate patron noise, such as bars, nightclubs and restaurants;
Leisure and entertainment venues, such as theatres, auditoriums and music venues
Hotels, residential, secure residential, dwellinghouses, student accommodation and Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMO);
What is the relevant Noise Assessment guidance?
The noise assessment guidance is determined by the project type, by the relevant planning guidance within England and Wales or Scotland, and by the requirements of consultees such as the relevant Local Authority.
We have an in-depth working knowledge of all relevant noise assessment standards and protocols in the UK and Ireland, a sample of which are outlined below:
BS 8233:2014+A1:2021 - "Guidance on sound insulation and noise reduction for buildings"
BS 4142:2014+A1:2019 - "Method for Rating Industrial Noise Affecting Mixed Residential and Industrial Areas"
BS 5228-1:2009+A1:2014 - "Code of practice for noise and vibration control on construction and open sites - Part 1: Noise"
BS 7445-1 :2003 – “Description and measurement of environmental noise Guide to quantities and procedures”
Technical Advice Note 11 (TAN11)
ProPG: Planning & Noise
National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)
National Policy Statement England (NPSE)
National Planning Policy Guidance (NPPG)
The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005
Which Standards are Commonly Required for a Noise and Vibration Assessment?
The relevant planning officer or environmental health officer will often inform you of the specific standards and criteria that your scheme will need to satisfy, although it is often best to seek the direct advice of an experienced noise and acoustics consultant to determine the most appropriate assessment methodology for a given project. Some of the most commonly required assessment standards for assessing noise include:
BS 4142:2014+A1:2019 - "Method for Rating Industrial Noise Affecting Mixed Residential and Industrial Areas"
This standard is used to assess and rate the impact of industrial noise on residential and mixed residential and industrial areas. It provides a method for measuring noise levels, assessing the impact of noise, and determining the appropriate level of noise control measures. It applies to all types of industrial and commercial projects that are located near residential areas.
BS 8233:2014+A1:2021 - "Guidance on sound insulation and noise reduction for buildings":
This standard provides guidance on how to reduce the impact of noise on residential occupants. It covers a wide range of noise sources, including external noise from traffic and industrial activities, as well as internal noise from building services and equipment. It is intended to be used by architects, engineers, building owners, and others involved in the design, construction, and maintenance of buildings.
BS 5228-1:2009+A1:2014 - "Code of practice for noise and vibration control on construction and open sites"
This standard provides guidance on the control of noise and vibration on construction and open sites. It covers a wide range of noise sources, including construction equipment, transportation, and site activities, as well as vibration from pile driving and other activities. The standard provides guidance on the assessment of noise and vibration levels, the selection of appropriate control measures, and the monitoring and verification of their effectiveness.