Noise and Vibration

SMA is able to undertake a wide variety of noise and vibration assessments, particularly for clients wishing to know the development potential of sites in noisy locations. At the initial stage this is done through environmental noise monitoring using a Class 1 sound level meter and vibration monitoring equipment.

Where information is required for future situations, SMA is able to create detailed noise models incorporating multiple sources using the model package SoundPLAN. This is a three dimensional graphics oriented programme which utilises the methods prescribed in the Department for Transport’s Calculation of Road Traffic Noise (CRTN) and Calculation of Railway Noise (CRN) guidelines to calculate noise levels from road and rail traffic and industrial noise is assessed to ISO 9613 Part 1 and 2.

The results from the measurements and modelling are compared with the latest Government guidance and British Standards and a strategy is formulated on how to proceed. SMA can provide advice on all aspects of site development, from the initial stages in the planning process through to detailed technical specifications for discharging planning conditions.

Projects have included residential developments ranging from a few buildings to 4000 plus homes, mixed use developments with residential dwellings in close proximity to commercial units, commercial developments within established residential areas and industrial processes including the relocation of a Minerals Recovery Facility.