Air Conditioning Noise Survey Case Study
Sound Solution Acoustic Consultancy was commissioned to assess whether the noise level from air conditioning units at the rear of a commercial building within central London showed any increment in the existing background at the facade of the nearest sensitive property. SSAC were to undertake a Noise Impact Assessment and were to consider whether the noise at the nearest sensitive properties would be within acceptable levels.
Eligibility for planning approval on the grounds of noise was assessed using the guidance given in World Health Organisation Guidelines (WHO) and local guidelines. Methods and procedures as outlines in BS4142 were followed.
Our report therefore described a noise impact assessment of the site, the subsequent analysis to determine the noise environment of the proposed air-conditioning unit and compared the results with national and local standards and specific criteria. The report included the following information:
- Location of the nearest sensitive window at the closest residential property.
- Proposed operational hours of the air units.
- Background noise levels assessment over the proposed hours of operation.
- Frequency band analysis of noise of the proposed plant.
- Calculations for the predicted noise level 1 meter from the window of the nearest residential property.