Extraction System Noise Surveys & Assessments

January 3, 2020

What is an extraction system noise survey?

Extraction systems are among the most common noise nuisance complaints, especially in built-up areas where pubs and restaurants are located in close proximity to houses. The problems are exacerbated if commercial kitchen exhausts vent into small shared spaces or are located beneath residential units – flats and apartments situated above takeaways with late opening hours, for instance.

If catering businesses are located in busy city centres, extraction systems noise levels may well be indistinguishable from other ambient sounds – traffic and music systems – but in quieter areas, they could be more intrusive – and more likely to get a poor reception from neighbours. Acquiring accurate data on noise emissions is the only way to ensure your business complies with regulations designed to minimise noise nuisance. Assessing noise levels in context is crucial.

In order to be certain about the noise emissions from an extraction system, you need to commission a BS4142 noise survey. The official approach to rating and assessing any industrial or commercial noise is via British Standard BS 4142: 2014. This standard applies to sound assessment from fixed installations of mechanical and electrical plant and equipment, including extractor fan units. Rather than assessing the absolute sound levels, the assessment method calculates the difference between the ‘background sound level’ and the ‘rating level’ of the industrial source, at the receiver location. The greater the difference between these two reference points, the bigger the impact on the immediate environment. The guidance for BS4142:2014 advises that a difference of circa 5dB+ could indicate adverse impact, while 10dB+ could indicate significant adverse impact.

How are extraction system noise surveys used?

Construction activities, though vital for societal progress, are often accompanied by high levels of noise that can disrupt the tranquility of surrounding areas. From jackhammering to heavy machinery operations, construction noise can affect nearby residences, schools, hospitals, and workplaces, leading to annoyance, sleep disturbances, and even long-term health issues.

Challenges in Monitoring Construction Noise

An extraction system noise survey is usually a requirement when a planning application is being submitted to a local authority. The requirement is as likely to apply to smaller catering businesses, such as cafes and hot food shops, as it is to large commercial kitchens and takeaways, such as KFC and Nandos. A noise impact assessment to BS 4142:2014 will satisfy the local planning authority that proposals will not have an adverse impact on others.

Our thorough extractions system noise survey include:

Background sound level assessment
Assessment of noise emissions from the extractor fan (or acoustic modelling if the unit is not yet operational)
Analysis of noise impact to BS4142:2014
Recommendations for any noise mitigation measures (including fitting a silencer)
Technical report for submission in support of a planning application

We approach every case with fresh eyes and you can be confident with our in-depth understanding and experience dealing with local authorities to achieve planning permission for a range of client for extraction systems.

Should the proposed installation seem likely to cause adverse impact, we will provide you with tailored advice regarding cost-effective and realistic solutions that will enable you to meet BS 4142:2014 standards, including changing or modifying the proposed unit, re-orientation or realignment, or the implementation of acoustic noise-reducing barriers or enclosures.

Why choose Nova Acoustics?

NOVA Acoustics is one of the UK’s leading independent consultancies. We offer a dedicated, professional service to a wide range of private and commercial clients through a network of accredited engineers. We have extensive experience of conducting a wide range of noise surveys including BS 4142:2014 extractor fan noise surveys and can usually offer a fast turnaround on urgent projects. Our expert advice is highly valued.

Leading independent consultancy
Professional consulting team
Practical and cost-effective advice
Local accredited engineers
CSCS safety approved

BS4142 Noise Survey & Assessment: A Practical Guide to BS4142 Noise Assessments and Planning Permission

BS 4142 is the British Standard used to assess the impact of industrial and commercial noise on nearby sensitive premises. It works by comparing the rating level of a specific noise source (adjusted for acoustic character) against the prevailing background noise level at the nearest receptor. A difference of around +10 dB or more indicates a likely significant adverse impact. Around +5 dB indicates a likely adverse impact. At or below background indicates negligible impact. Most local planning authorities require a BS4142 assessment when new commercial or industrial premises are proposed near residential properties, or when fixed plant and equipment is being installed. The 2019 amendment (BS4142:2014+A1:2019) introduced important updates to methodology that all current assessments must reflect.

Noise Impact Assessment for Planning Permission: The Complete Guide

A noise impact assessment (NIA) is a technical report submitted as part of a planning application to demonstrate that a proposed development will not cause unacceptable noise. You will typically need one if your development is near a significant noise source (road, rail, or commercial premises), if it generates noise that could affect nearby residents, or if a planning authority has specifically requested one. NIAs are assessed against standards including BS4142, BS8233, and the NPPF. Without one, many planning applications are refused or delayed.

How to Choose the Right Acoustic Panel for Your Space: A Buyer’s Guide

Acoustic panels reduce echo, reverberation, and noise build-up within a room by absorbing sound. They do not block sound between rooms. The right panel depends on five things: the material (polyester fibre or fabric-wrapped), the thickness, how it will be mounted, the aesthetic requirements of the space, and whether durability or sustainability are priorities. Every panel in the Songbird range achieves Class A sound absorption (the highest performance rating available), so the choice between them comes down to application, environment, and finish rather than acoustic performance.