Acoustic Sheeting for Noise Reduction

Current regulations do not specify noise control by law, but many planning and construction professionals are taking a lead with measures to minimise noise pollution. Such measures are commonplace for companies signed up to the Considerate Contractors Scheme (CCS), an independent, non-profit organisation that aims to encourage best practice in the industry beyond statutory requirements.

Normally, the human ear can hear sounds from 0 decibels (dB) to 140 dB. Above 80 dB, hearing damage can occur depending on the length of exposure; sounds above 120 dB can be painful as well as dangerously damaging. Many items of construction equipment create noise well above the threshold of risk. Hand-held power tools and circular saws make almost 100 dB in sound, jackhammers and bulldozers generate over 100 dB, and earth drilling equipment usually exceeds 120 dB.

Urban sites are often noise-sensitive locations, especially where high-rise buildings are in close proximity – a common condition in many of the recladding projects currently taking place in city centres. Where two elevations are spaced a short distance apart, responsible construction should take into consideration the occupants of adjacent offices or residential buildings. It is helpful to conduct an environmental noise assessment accounting for local conditions and activities, the position of nearby buildings and the methods of construction that will take place over the development timeline. That assessment can determine whether the scaffold protection and containment systems should include acoustic barrier material that reduces the impact of sound and improves the construction work environment.

Noise attenuation is achieved by an acoustic barrier material that both blocks and absorbs the noise. Installing the barrier as close as possible to the source of the noise maximises the sheltered area. In all cases, the reduction must be at least 10 dB to be perceived as making a significant difference to the level of noise.

To meet the sound barrier performance required by local authorities and contractors, scaffold sheeting should be independently tested to BS EN ISO 10140-2:2010, the International Standard for Measurement of Airborne Sound Insulation of Building Elements. In all cases, it is essential to confirm that a sheeting manufacturer can demonstrate the necessary independent testing.