acoustics


Noise pollution must and can be stopped


Peter Jackson, managing director, Jacksons Fencing, explains that schools are under threat from an issue unconsidered by many


design process - only 30% of specifiers have used acoustic solutions for schools. The World Health Organisation’s (WHO) guidelines for community noise recommend less than 35 decibels (dB(A)) in classrooms for good teaching and learning conditions. According to the EU however, 40% of the population in EU countries are exposed to noise exceeding 55 dB(A). To ensure environmental noise pollution


N


doesn’t impact learning, head teachers need to make acoustics a priority when consulting architects and specifiers. Acoustic barriers are one solution which can create a quiet environment and reduce distractions in the classroom. Jacksons Fencing recently


commissioned extensive research into environmental noise and acoustics to gather insight from industry professionals to better understand the issues surrounding environmental noise solutions. Unfortunately the findings highlight that, despite risks to health and education, there are still obstacles when trying to reduce noise pollution. According to the findings, cost is the


greatest obstacle when specifying acoustic barriers, highlighted by 54% of respondents. And 43% stated that clients perceive acoustic barriers as ‘unnecessary’, followed by clients disliking the appearance (37%) and a lack of information or understanding (32%). This research suggests that many people underestimate or are unaware of the significant benefits noise barriers can


OISE pollution can have a significant impact on health and learning and is often overlooked during the


have on daily life, including schools. If architects and specifiers were more


knowledgeable on acoustic barriers, they would be able to better communicate their value, overcoming the challenge of cost. Work in this area is clearly needed; 69% reported having a “limited or poor” understanding of acoustic barriers and 21% are “not aware” of the benefits of acoustic barriers. Fortunately, head teachers have a lot


of choice when it comes to barriers to suit their particular site. A range of materials is used with varying effectiveness, from earth bunds to timber, metal and plastics. Below is a guide to common materials specified for acoustic barriers: Timber - cost-effective and adaptable.


Combines noise reducing properties with a pleasant natural façade and can deliver up to 32dB in noise reduction. 66% of industry professionals view timber as an effective acoustic barrier. Steel and aluminium - favoured for


their light weight, metal barriers are relatively costly and need to be well supported and maintained to avoid a “drumming” effect from noise vibration. Plexiglas/perspex/acrylic - considered


among the least effective acoustic materials. Offers light transmission and visibility. Requires high maintenance as materials can be distorted by severe weather conditions and lose acoustic properties. Earth bunds or berms – the oldest


form of acoustic barrier. Highly effective in situations where soil and plant are readily available on-site, but require significant space and planning, making it


educationdab.co.uk 31


costly if materials need to be transported to site. Seen as the most effective solution for noise reduction, 78% of respondents identified it as effective. Combination - these materials can be


combined to suit particular applications, aesthetic considerations or topography of the site, for example, timber barriers on top of bunds. Combinations add cost and complexity to a project which need to be weighed against aesthetics, performance and lifetime cost requirements. In terms of maintenance, service life


and environmental impact, timber is the most effective barrier available. Earth is the next most effective measure, where there is space and material on site. Before undergoing any project to


reduce noise, it is always best practice to contact an acoustic consultant to ensure they find a solution suitable for the sit


www. jacksons-fencing.co.uk


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49