Noise Surveys: Everything You Need to Know
Noise surveys, also known as acoustic surveys, are a crucial component of noise impact assessments, providing the data needed to evaluate environmental noise levels and their potential effects on a given site.
Whether you’re planning a residential development, commercial project, an industrial operation or simply installing a heat pump, a noise survey ensures compliance with local authority requirements and helps to mitigate noise-related concerns.
What Is a Noise Survey?
A survey involves measuring and analysing noise levels in a specific environment to assess potential impacts and inform effective noise control strategies. These surveys capture data on existing ambient noise, specific noise sources, and potential impacts of new developments. The results are then used to inform planning decisions, design considerations, and noise mitigation strategies.
For a broader understanding of noise impact assessments, see our What Is a Noise Impact Assessment? page.
Why Are Noise Surveys Important?
To explore the regulatory context further, visit our Planning Policy page.
- Planning Permission: Most local authorities require a noise survey as part of a noise impact assessment when submitting a planning application.
- Compliance with Standards: Surveys ensure compliance with relevant standards such as BS 8233, BS 4142, and WHO guidelines on environmental noise.
- Community Well-being: Effective noise control minimises disturbances for nearby residents and promotes a healthier living environment.
- Cost Savings: Identifying potential noise issues early in the project can prevent costly redesigns or retrofitting of noise mitigation measures later on.
Types of Noise Surveys
Acoustic surveys play a complementary role in addressing more specific noise challenges, such as managing sound levels in mixed-use developments or resolving complaints about intermittent industrial noise.
For more detailed information on how survey data is evaluated, check out our Survey Metrics page.
1. Background Sound
These surveys measure existing noise levels at a site before any development takes place. They establish a benchmark for comparison against predicted noise levels once the project is operational. These surveys are commonplace where new building services equipment is proposed.
2. Environmental Noise
Focused on measuring noise from environmental sources such as road traffic, railways, or industrial facilities. These surveys provide data to assess proposals for a new noise sensitive development such as dwellings, or where a change of use is proposed.
Very often, a single survey can provide enough data to address both considerations.
How Noise Surveys Are Conducted
- Site Visit: A qualified acoustic consultant visits the site to set up noise monitoring equipment.
- Data Collection: Noise levels are measured over a specified period, typically 24 hours or longer, to capture variations in noise during different times of the day.
- Analysis: The collected data is analysed using specialised software to identify trends, determine compliance, and assess potential impacts.
- Report Generation: The findings are compiled into a detailed report, including recommendations for any necessary noise mitigation measures.
Common Noise Mitigation Measures
Noise and acoustic surveys often lead to the implementation of various noise mitigation measures, tailored to specific project needs such as residential developments near busy roads, industrial sites adjacent to residential areas, or schools requiring a quiet learning environment.
Understanding these measures in context is critical; see our Common NIA Standards page for more insights.
- Acoustic Barriers: Fencing or walls designed to reduce the transmission of noise.
- Building Insulation: Enhanced glazing and wall insulation to minimise indoor noise levels.
- Operational Adjustments: Modifying operating hours or machinery placement to reduce noise exposure.
- Landscaping: Strategic placement of trees and shrubs to act as natural sound buffers.
Choosing the Right Noise Consultant
Selecting the right consultant is key to ensuring accurate results and a seamless planning process. When selecting a consultant for your noise survey, consider the following:
- Qualifications and Experience: Look for consultants who are members of recognised professional bodies, such as the Institute of Acoustics (IOA).
- Local Knowledge: Familiarity with local authority requirements ensures a smoother planning process.
- Comprehensive Service: A good consultant provides clear, actionable recommendations and support throughout your project.
Get in Touch
At Attune, we specialise in providing accurate, reliable noise surveys tailored to your project’s needs. Our expert team is committed to helping you meet planning requirements and achieve effective noise control. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support your development.