Acoustics for Industrial and Commercial Premises

The acoustic implications of an industrial or commercial development can be significant, particularly where residential properties are in close proximity.

British Standard 4142:1997 ‘Method for rating industrial noise affecting mixed residential and industrial areas’ is used to assess whether noisefrom industrial premises and sources of an industrial nature in commercial premisesis likely to give rise to complaints from people residing in nearby dwellings.

The procedure for assessing the likelihood of complaint, is to compare the measured or predicted noise level from the source in question immediately outside the dwelling, the ‘specific noise level’, with the existing background noise level. The specific, ambient and residual noise levels are measured in terms of LAeq,T values and the background noise level is measured in terms of an LA90 value. Where the specific noise contains a ‘distinguishable discrete continuous note (whine, hiss,screech, hum etc.) or if there are distinct impulses in the noise (bangs, clicks, clatters or thumps), or if the noise is irregular enough to attract attention’ then a correction of +5dB is added to the specific noise level to obtain the ‘rating level’.

The likelihood of noise provoking complaints is assessed by subtracting the background noise level from the rating noise level. BS 4142 states:

  • “A difference of around 10dB or higher indicates that complaints are likely.
  • “A difference of around 5dB is of marginal significance. A difference of -10dB is a positive indication that complaints are unlikely.”

The draft Guidelines for Noise Impact Assessment produced by the Institute of Acoustics/Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment Working Party can also be used as a guide in predicting the effect of noise on sensitive receptors. The draft guidelines state that for any assessment, the noise level thresholds and the significance of the effect should be determined based upon the specific evidence and likely subjective response to the noise, taking into account existing baseline conditions, source characterisation and propagation conditions.

HRS has recently carried out baseline noise surveys to assess the existing noise climate in the immediate vicinity of two supermarkets operated by Sainsbury’s. Extensions or modifications to the existing layout were being considered, and as such it was necessary to establish the existing noise levels such that the impact of any changes could be predicted.

It is also sometimes the case that residential properties are sited adjacent to retail units. In this situation it is likely that the wall or floor separating the residential and retail units will require testing in accordance with Approved Document E. It is then at the discretion of the relevant building control body to determine whether the performance standards as set out in tables 0.1a and 0.1b of Approved Document E are sufficient or whether a higher standard of sound insulation is required, taking into account the noise generated in the retail unit. This was the case when HRS carried out pre-completion sound insulation testing at a recently completed Aldi Store in Blaby, Leicestershire, where two storeys of apartments were constructed above the supermarket.

Logos for various bodies

Acoustics - Flagship Projects

Click headings to read more

Show all scroller content

Acoustic solutions for office buildings

Sound insulation testing of the newly built offices at St. Omar barracks, Aldershot

Acoustics for Healthcare Premises

Pre-completion testing at new oncology & haemotology unit, Castle Hill Hospital, Hull