Blog | Noise Control

Noise Control in Buildings

While lighting and temperature considerations can improve a building’s operational efficiency, a good acoustic environment can have a major impact on the comfort levels of a building.

As a result, noise control can prove a significant factor in occupant wellbeing. For best results, a building’s acoustics should be considered as early on in the design process as possible.

Noise Control in Buildings

Following the outbreak of COVID-19, people are more aware than ever before about the impact of a building on its occupants’ health. Within the workplace, a poor acoustical environment is not only very distracting for employees but has been associated with a number of health issues including fatigue and stress. With many businesses having invested in improved ventilation systems to prevent the spread of airborne infections within the workplace, it is time for businesses to also consider the damaging affect poor acoustics can have on employees.

Building noise regulations set out criteria regarding internal and external noise levels that building projects must comply with. BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Assessment Method) credits are also awarded to buildings that meet specific acoustic standards.

Acoustic Comfort

Four key factors are considered to determine the acoustic levels of a building. These are noise, vibration, reverberation and speech intelligibility.

Noise

Unwanted noise can be caused by the internal elements of a building including heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, such as air source heat pumps. It can also be the product of external sources of noise such as nearby railway tracks and busy roads.

Vibration

Mechanical and electrical systems within buildings, such as cooling towers and generators, can produce vibrations. These circulate throughout the structure of a building and then emit these from a building’s elements.

Reverberation

The amount of echo (or the time it takes for a sound to disappear) within an enclosed space is another important element used to determine the acoustic levels of a building. Reverberation can be reduced through implementing absorptive fabrics and materials within a space.

Speech Intelligibility

Conversations can be difficult to hear in a building with poor acoustics and loud background noise.

Designing an Acoustic Building

Good building design can minimise the noise levels of a building. If designed well, mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems will cause little disturbance to a building’s occupants. It is important to introduce noise control measures as early on as possible during the design process. Addressing acoustical issues as they arise can be much more expensive and complicated.

While HVAC systems are a major source of noise, noise can also be a product of fans, escalators, grilles, condensers, and more. Weaknesses within building fabric design and window insulation can further reduce the noisiness of a building.

There is not a one size fits all solution to acoustic issues. Instead, the appropriate measures to implement will vary for each building. Important aspects to consider include:

Designing HVAC systems with good airflow
Reverberation control
Adequate sound insulation
Thought-out space planning to isolate noisy, vibrating elements to minimise disturbance

Summary

Though human safety is the main priority when designing buildings, acoustical considerations make for a much more comfortable indoor environment for occupants. While buildings must legally comply with building noise regulations, meeting these standards can improve employee wellbeing as a result.

For best practice, noise control should be integrated into the design process as soon as possible to minimise costs and maximise efficiency.

At DARe-me Consulting Engineers, our team of experts produce all MEP systems with acoustical considerations in mind. Get in touch today to find out more.

Current Job Vacancies

Our Current Vacancies ... to apply email your CV to jobs@dare-me.co.uk

Position: Senior / Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

Location: Glasgow

Employment Type: Full time / Permanent

Experience: Minimum 5 years relevant design experience

Start Date: ASAP

Salary: Excellent / Dependant on experience

Qualifications: Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) degree in Building Services or Mechanical Engineering.

Chartered status: IMECHE/CIBSE is preferred or progression towards chartership.

Skills and Abilities:

1. Proficiency in AutoCAD with a working knowledge of Revit.

2. Technical proficiency, strong communication skills, effective time management, and a collaborative team approach.

3. Demonstrated ability to exercise financial control and project management skills would be advantageous.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Conduct mechanical design and consulting tasks encompassing systems design, production, specifications, and scheduling.

2. Provide comprehensive reports and guidance to clients.

3. Coordinate with internal and external design team members, representing the company in meetings.

4. Serve as the primary contact for clients, ensuring their needs are met efficiently by leading or assisting consultants.

5. Foster effective collaboration with all stakeholders impacted by your work.

6. Demonstrate accountability in project management and actively mentor junior staff through training initiatives.

7. Monitor and adjust personal and team workload schedules regularly. Establish and update task priority lists accordingly.

8. Review the accuracy and completeness of documentation produced by colleagues.

9. Uphold adherence to all Quality System protocols.

10. Fulfill administrative duties including tracking project-related man-hour commitments and providing monthly reports on project fee details.

11. Oversee project management activities, including the coordination of junior staff and ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.

12. Adhere to security protocols and maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive commercial information.

13. Fulfill any additional responsibilities required to support the company's core objectives as directed by the Directors.

14. Contribute to compliance with relevant ISO standards and national regulations in all operational activities.

Our Current Vacancies ... to apply email your CV to jobs@dare-me.co.uk

Position: Associate Electrical Design Engineer

Location: Glasgow

Employment Type: Full time / Permanent

Experience: 10+ years relevant design experience

Start Date: ASAP

Salary: Excellent / Dependant on experience

Qualifications: Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) degree in Building Services or Electrical Engineering.

Chartered status: IET/CIBSE is preferred or progression towards chartership.

Skills and Abilities:

1. Generate electrical design drawings, conduct calculations using software such as Amtech, Hevacomp, IES, Relux, and Dialux, and prepare reports, specifications, and schedules.

2. Play a role in achieving BREEAM or equivalent regulatory compliance.

3. Contribute to compliance with Building Regulations Part F, Part L, or Section 6 through modeling efforts.

4. Participate in witnessing tests for the proving and commissioning of final installations.

5. Aid in the training and development of junior engineers.

6. Adhere to internal and external project timelines efficiently.

7. Adhere to the company's Quality Assurance management systems.

8. Provide support to Directors.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Conduct mechanical design and consulting tasks encompassing systems design, production, specifications, and scheduling.

2. Provide comprehensive reports and guidance to clients.

3. Coordinate with internal and external design team members, representing the company in meetings.

4. Serve as the primary contact for clients, ensuring their needs are met efficiently by leading or assisting consultants.

5. Foster effective collaboration with all stakeholders impacted by your work.

6. Demonstrate accountability in project management and actively mentor junior staff through training initiatives.

7. Monitor and adjust personal and team workload schedules regularly. Establish and update task priority lists accordingly.

8. Review the accuracy and completeness of documentation produced by colleagues.

9. Uphold adherence to all Quality System protocols.

10. Fulfill administrative duties including tracking project-related man-hour commitments and providing monthly reports on project fee details.

11. Oversee project management activities, including the coordination of junior staff and ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.

12. Adhere to security protocols and maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive commercial information.

13. Fulfill any additional responsibilities required to support the company's core objectives as directed by the Directors.

14. Contribute to compliance with relevant ISO standards and national regulations in all operational activities.

DARe-me Consulting Engineers

Core Values

Technical Excellence

Our commitment to quality service extends beyond external interactions with clients, designers, contractors, and industry stakeholders. Internally, we foster a collaborative environment where teamwork is paramount. Our aim is to be the dependable choice for clients and fellow team members alike. Upholding a consistently high level of service is essential in maintaining our reputation as trusted partners.

Excellence in Deliverables

Renowned for delivering superior end-products, we prioritise the continuous development of our workforce. We meticulously review and refine our methodologies, processes, and outputs to ensure unparalleled quality. Our focus on people development drives our relentless pursuit of excellence. We embrace innovation and adaptability to remain at the forefront of our industry, consistently exceeding expectations as the consultant of choice.

Innovation

Innovation lies at the heart of our operations, and we leverage advanced technologies such as the latest computer software and even drones for surveying to enhance our services. By integrating drones into our surveying process, we achieve greater efficiency, accuracy, and safety standards. This innovative approach not only sets us apart but also ensures that we deliver exceptional results to our clients, reinforcing our position as industry leaders.

Empowerment and Growth

Central to our values is the empowerment and growth of our staff. We invest in their professional development through robust technical support and training programs, instilling confidence in their abilities. Additionally, we prioritise streamlining processes to promote a healthy work-life balance, enabling our team members to thrive personally and professionally. Our comprehensive benefits package underscores our commitment to their wellbeing, health, and financial security.

Sustainability and Social Responsibility

We are dedicated to sustainability and social responsibility in all aspects of our operations. From minimising our environmental footprint to actively contributing to community and charitable initiatives, we strive to make a positive impact. Our sustainable practices not only align with our core values but also reflect our commitment to creating a better future for generations to come.

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Get in Touch

83 Old Castle Road, Glasgow, G44 5TG

Glasgow: 0141 374 2965

Edinburgh: 0131 235 2965

London: 0208 087 2965

enquiries@dare-me.co.uk

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