In the construction industry, there is a need for effective control of acoustic leaks. Sound insulation testing specialists are accredited within the registration programme of the Association of Noise Consultants. This covers the performance of acoustic tests and sound insulation of buildings, offices and other commercial buildings.

When you are developing a building, there is a need for residents and commercial building occupants to be sound-proofed from neighbours and the outside world, and there is also a need to ensure effective sound-proofing in commercial environments.

Specialists offer a range of acoustic design services, including sound design and insulation for commercial and industrial buildings and offices, with privacy offices being an important example.

Benchmarks

The standards are an important tool for verifying whether the required sound insulation levels have been achieved.

According to the building code, acoustic tests must be performed by a qualified acoustic engineer accredited to perform acoustic tests.

• The airborne sound insulation test is performed by placing one or two loudspeakers in the source room. The speakers are used to play white or pink noise, as the acoustician wears hearing protection. Another reason for using this type of noise is that it is of constant amplitude to keep the sound consistent.

• The February 2015 Performance Standards (BB93) relate to the performance of acoustic tests of buildings, offices and other commercial buildings and offices in the UK. A compliant testing authority must conduct all tests.
• The room sound level is specified in section 1 of BB93 for all room types, with a maximum ambient sound level of 1.5 m / s for indoor and 2.2 m / s for outdoor spaces.

Professional training

However, it is crucial to recognise the importance of formal training in acoustic sound testing for the industry that helps ensure that those in the field of noise testing have the necessary experience and qualifications for design and consulting services.

Professional organisations welcome the benefits of basic training. This includes training of sound insulation testers at the technician level and provision of the necessary acoustic consulting services in this field.

Dealing with the tests

It is common for a building inspector to ask you for confirmation that your building meets the required standards. To ensure that your property meets these requirements, an experienced acoustics consultant will work to minimise any potential problems until the planned completion.

Although you will receive a certificate, you get the oral results of the test first. During the tests, a well-trained engineer with experience in acoustics and sound testing can provide feedback on any problems you notice during a test and inform you about the verbal results of the sound test. Also, they can help you deal with a failed sound test.

Expert help

Building developers need to hire a recognised auditing organisation for sound insulation, which acts as a registered auditor and performs the necessary sound tests for residential buildings under structural control.

The company also advises on the design of sound insulation to comply with building regulations and provides advice on coping with legal noise nuisance measures.

According to the building code, acoustic tests must be performed by a qualified acoustic engineer accredited to perform acoustic tests.

With expert help, your building will pass any sound insulation testing required to comply with building regulations.

Donny white