What is an Environmental Noise Survey?
An environmental noise survey is performed in accordance with the latest regulations to ensure that you meet the environmental criteria set by your local authority. Although the expect standard required for an environmental noise survey varies, this typically includes BS4142 or BS7445. Both British Standards are methods for rating and assessing industrial or commercial noise.
Environmental noise surveys are required for new dwelling and home developments to ensure noise levels do not exceed specific noise levels for the local community. Examples of the source of noise pollution that may need to be assessed include:
Continuous noise:
- Road traffic
- Industrial noises and processes
- Extractor fans
Tonal noise:
- Machinery
- Wind turbines
Intermittent noise:
- Construction
- Transport
What standards are required for my environmental noise survey?
Your planning permission or environmental health officer will typically inform you of the specific standards that your need to fulfil. Some of the most commonly required standards for undertaking an environmental noise survey include:
- BS 4142: This British Standard is frequently requested and used widely throughout the United Kingdom for environmental noise assessments. The main purpose is to assess the likelihood of complaints arising from industrial noise impinging on existing or proposed residential developments. Local authorities will often request an environmental noise survey be performed in compliance with the parameters outlined in this British Standard.
- BS 7445: An appropriate environmental noise survey must ensure that satisfactory methodologies have been implemented. This British Standard helps to ensure that accurate and repeatable methods have been applied and followed during an environmental noise assessment.
- BS 8233: This British Standard may be used in the context of an environmental noise survey to ensure that specified internal noise levels are achieved in existing, new or proposed residential developments.
While the exact nature and requirements of your environmental noise survey may vary, we have vast experience helping our clients understand and execute the specific goals for their project. In the instance that an environmental noise survey highlights any issues, we will use our experience to provide you with a realistic, cost-effective solution, tailored to suit your needs. Simply the use the contact form, or call us, to discuss your specific environmental noise assessment requirements with our friendly and knowledgeable team of expert acoustic consultants.
