Using past experience and results from testing and calculations, the consultant can provide solutions that address sound propagation, speech intelligibility and the enhancement of music, and provide options to mitigate noise within the built environment. The consultant can review plans for new facilities in order to make recommendations on space planning, room shaping, finish selections, construction methods, etc. The consultant can perform tests within an existing facility to assess the acoustic environment and make recommendations as to how to mitigate concerns. Common issues addressed in architectural acoustics:
Environmental acoustics primarily addresses outdoor noise and vibration concerns. Consultants can perform tests and calculations to determine the impact of a noise source on the environment and then recommend options to mitigate the noise. The mitigation of noise may be addressed at the source of the noise, or in some cases it will be addressed at the receiver. Examples of common environmental noise sources are: traffic noise from automobiles, airplanes and trains, and noise from industrial and entertainment facilities. The consultant’s services can include:
Consultants specializing in industrial noise control typically deal with noise and vibration generated by industrial equipment and machines, and how to control this noise in order to protect industrial workers. The consultant can determine the level of noise exposure and the impact it could have on hearing conservation through testing methods and calculations. Consultants can advise in the selection and/or installation of new equipment or can offer suggestions as to how to mitigate existing noise or reduce noise exposure. Common industrial noise control options include:
Mechanical equipment is a common source of noise and vibration. Typically mechanical acoustics addresses noise and vibration from building systems, especially HVAC. Consultants can review proposed ducting plans, unit specifications and unit locations to determine any potential noise concerns. Consultants can also test existing systems for compliance with acceptable noise levels and make recommendations as to how to mitigate noise and vibration concerns. Common concerns that should be addressed include: