Plant & Services
An integral part of any building development, both in new build and refurbishment projects is the mechanical and electrical services systems and associated plant, also termed Building Services or HVAC. Whatever system is employed in a building there will be internal and external acoustic requirements for noise control from plant and systems.
Data Centres and Continuous Plant Noise
Noise associated with data centres is an increasingly relevant consideration due to their size and proximity to residential and commercial areas. Due to their 24/7 requirements, plant can run continuously 365 days a year. Noise sources might include rooftop HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning), chillers, backup generators and ventilation louvres and ducting.
Heat Pumps and Planning Considerations
Air source heat pumps are a common feature of new development due to their energy efficiency, lower carbon emissions and government incentives. Many smaller projects will fall under permitted development rights (such as ground or air source heat pumps and small scale wind turbines). For air source heat pumps, a method for assessing noise against the permitted development noise limit of 37dB(A) is set out in MCS-020-a. However, local authorities may still require a noise impact assessment to ensure no disturbance to neighbouring properties which would likely follow the guidance set out in British Standard (BS) 4142 “Methods for rating and assessing industrial and commercial sound”.
How we can support you
WBM can provide assessments in line with local authority requirements which may need to be in accordance with standards such as BS 4142 or MCS-020-a.
We will advise on initial planning issues, liaise with environmental health personnel and planning officers, advise on current standards, regulations and codes of practice and will undertake the necessary baseline noise surveys to support your project.
For more complex or larger building services projects, WBM will provide effective coordination with the design team, contractors and other professionals to ensure that appropriate noise criteria are set and met.
Solutions may need to meet BREEAM, BB93, HTM 08-01, planning authority or other contractual requirements. WBM will help deliver workable solutions that harmonise the acoustic requirements of both the surrounding and internal building environment with the essential thermal and ventilation needs of the building.
Our plant services
Our core services for plant noise assessment and control.
Other specialist sectors
WBM has long been associated with environmental, architectural and building acoustics both here in the UK and abroad.
FAQs
How can I reduce / mitigate noise?
Noise from items of plant or machinery is best mitigated at source using quieter machinery / processes or with barriers, screening and enclosures.
Get in touch
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