Building services noise and vibration control
Plant and building services keep a building comfortable, but they can also be its loudest occupants. A humming air-handling unit above a boardroom, a rooftop condenser next to a neighbour's bedroom, a fan coil whistling in a quiet suite: these are the problems clients remember. We help design teams control noise and vibration from plant, services and building systems from the start.
What we advise on
- Plant location and strategy. Where plant sits has the biggest effect on noise. Early input on plant rooms, risers and roof layouts avoids expensive mitigation later.
- Internal services noise. Criteria and design advice for ventilation, heating and cooling systems, so that offices, bedrooms, studios and meeting rooms reach their intended background noise levels.
- Duct-borne noise and cross-talk. Attenuator selection and duct routing to stop noise and speech travelling between rooms.
- Enclosures and screening. Acoustic enclosures, louvres and barriers designed to suit the architecture, not just the noise.
- Vibration isolation. Isolation of plant, pumps, generators and lift equipment so vibration does not reach sensitive spaces as noise or movement.
- Transmission paths. Identifying and closing paths through structure, risers and penetrations.
Plant noise and planning
New or replacement plant often needs a noise assessment for planning, particularly in mixed-use and residential areas. In the UK this is commonly assessed with BS 4142, which compares the rating level of the plant with the existing background sound. We carry out the background survey, predict plant noise at the nearest neighbours and recommend mitigation, then produce a report suitable for the local authority. See environmental noise assessment.
Working with the services engineer
We work alongside mechanical and electrical engineers, reviewing selections, layouts and schedules from an acoustic point of view. The aim is a services design that meets its performance and its acoustic criteria without late redesign.
Verification
Once systems are installed and commissioned, measurement and testing confirms that services noise meets the agreed criteria, inside the building and at its neighbours.
Where it matters most
Workplaces with open-plan floors and quiet rooms, hotels and homes, healthcare and education buildings, recording studios and performance spaces. See our sectors.
Related services
Discuss your services strategy
Share the plant schedule or layout, and we will flag the risks early. Book a consultation, call 020 3949 1597 or email hello@auris-consultancy.com.