We specialise in the science of sound — its measurement, its control, and its impact on people and the environment.
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Value-Focused Insight
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Fast & Trustworthy Support
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Practical, Proven Solutions
Noise and Vibration Assessments
One of the core activities of our work is conducting noise and vibration assessments. This involves measuring sound levels using specialised equipment, analysing how noise propagates, and evaluating its potential impact. Typical scenarios include:
- Environmental noise assessments: These focus on noise from roads, railways, airports, factories, and commercial developments. We measure existing noise levels, predict the impact on new developments, and advise on mitigation measures to reduce disturbance to future residents.
- Construction noise and vibration assessments: Using standards such as BS 5228, we predict noise and vibration from construction activities, ensuring projects comply with planning conditions and minimise disruption.
- Industrial noise assessments: We assess workplace noise to ensure it meets regulations like the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005, protecting employees’ hearing and health.
As an acoustic consultancy, we specialise in the science of sound — its measurement, its control, and its impact on people and the environment. We play a crucial role in a wide range of sectors, from construction and planning to industry, transportation, and entertainment. We help ensure that noise and vibration are managed effectively to protect health, wellbeing, and compliance with legal standards.
We also play an essential role in the UK’s planning process. When a new development is proposed—whether residential, commercial, or industrial—local planning authorities often require a detailed noise assessment to accompany the application. We use British Standards like BS 4142 and BS 8233 to evaluate whether noise from a proposed development might cause nuisance to neighbours.
Our reports help councils decide if planning permission should be granted and under what noise conditions. We also advise on planning conditions, such as limits on operating hours or requirements for noise mitigation.
Building Acoustics and Sound Insulation Testing
Beyond environmental noise, we also specialise in building acoustics, ensuring good sound insulation and internal acoustic comfort. This includes:
- Sound insulation testing: Carried out under Approved Document E of the Building Regulations, we perform pre-completion sound tests to verify that walls and floors meet minimum sound insulation standards between dwellings.
- Room acoustics: We advise on room acoustics in schools, offices, theatres, and hospitals, designing spaces to optimise speech intelligibility, reduce reverberation, and control background noise.
- Compliance with standards: For example, schools must meet BB93 for acoustic performance, and hospitals follow the HTM 08-01 guidelines.
Noise Control and Mitigation
We recommend practical solutions to control noise, such as installing acoustic barriers, silencers, enclosures, or vibration isolation systems. We also advise on building layouts and material choices to reduce sound transmission between spaces.
In industrial settings, we may design bespoke noise control systems for machinery or work environments. For urban developments, we help design landscaping or noise bunds to shield sensitive areas from environmental noise.
Expert Witness and Mediation Services
In disputes involving noise nuisance—such as neighbours complaining about loud music, factories, or construction noise — we may provide expert witness testimony in court or mediation settings. Our detailed measurements and impartial reports are often decisive in resolving conflicts.
Specialist Services
We also offer niche services like:
- Noise mapping and modelling: Using computer simulations to predict noise levels over large areas, essential for airports or transport projects.
- Environmental monitoring: Long-term noise monitoring for compliance or to assess changes over time.
- Workplace noise assessments: Ensuring employee exposure to noise meets health and safety standards.
Why Our Consultancy Services Matter
Noise pollution and poor acoustic environments can severely impact health, causing stress, sleep disturbance, and reduced productivity. We help balance the needs of development and industrial activity with those of protecting people and the environment. Our expertise supports sustainable growth, compliance with legal standards, and the creation of comfortable, healthy working and living spaces.