Acoustic Surveys, Analysis, & Assessments

AcoustiTest™ Acoustic Surveys & Assessments

Measuring and Assessing Sound and Vibration

Acoustic assessment usually begins with obtaining high quality acoustic measurements of sound and/or vibration. These measurements require several elements, including:

  • Planning: Determining how to undertake the survey such as what, where, and when to measure.
  • Familiarisation: Understanding the acoustic environment before measuring and reviewing and modifying the pre-survey plans.
  • Measurement:Use appropriate instrumentation to record the most suitable parameters at appropriate locations.
  • Observation: Tracking occurrences during the measurement periods that can affect the results.
  • Records: Noting measurements, observations, and any other relevant information in a manner that will assist the subsequent assessment.

With suitable measurements and relevant data, we generate a detailed report that enables decision-makers and other stakeholders to determine the appropriate next steps.

For Plant Selection with few exceptions, there is no legal limit for noise or vibration; there’s considerable variation between different local authorities and acousticians. Our Government-advocated approach protects those who may be affected by noise or vibration and minimizes the costs of compliance. We usually:

  • Conduct an acoustic survey and BS4142:2014 assessment (in some cases, a desktop assessment may be a more suitable alternative) to establish appropriate limits for plant noise.
  • Convert this to something meaningful for plant selection purposes: This is typically a definitive sound power level and informative “free field” sound pressure level at 1m or 10m from the plant.
  • Consider alternatives where it is difficult or costly to select plant that can achieve the required noise level: Though attenuation may seem like the most obvious solution, it may be more cost effective to use other techniques such as relocating the plant or changing its orientation.
  • Finalise plant selection details and produce an Acoustic Plant Selection Assessment: This report outlines the reasons for the selection of the acoustic criteria, the sound levels that the plant will produce, and how the criteria will be achieved.

AcoustiTest™ Plant Selection Assessments

For Plant Selection with few exceptions, there is no legal limit for noise or vibration; there’s considerable variation between different local authorities and acousticians. Our Government-advocated approach protects those who may be affected by noise or vibration and minimizes the costs of compliance.

We usually:

  • Conduct an acoustic survey and BS4142:2014 assessment (in some cases, a desktop assessment may be an option) to establish appropriate limits for plant noise.
  • Convert this to something meaningful for plant selection purposes: This is typically a definitive sound power level and informative “free field” sound pressure level at 1m or 10m from the plant.

How Does It Work?

  1. Establish appropriate limits for plant noise: We’ll conduct an acoustic survey and BS4142:2014 assessment. (In some cases, a desktop assessment may be a more suitable alternative.)
  2. Convert this to something meaningful for plant selection purposes: This is typically a “free field” sound pressure level at 1m or 10m from the plant.
  3. Consider alternatives where it is difficult or costly to select plant that can achieve the required noise level: Though attenuation may seem like the most obvious solution, it may be more cost effective to use other techniques such as relocating the plant or changing its orientation.
  4. Finalise plant selection details and produce an Acoustic Plant Selection Assessment: This report outlines the reasons for the selection of the acoustic criteria, the sound levels that the plant will produce, and how the criteria will be achieved.

Case study:

AcoustiTest™ Vibration Surveys & Assessments

We conduct vibration surveys to profile noise sources such as motorways, railway lines, or manufacturing plants. Then, we can identify the impact on the surrounding area, nearby buildings and the residents who may be affected. The results of these surveys enable our team to propose solutions to remedy the problem.