Mechanical & Building Services Noise Control
Noise Control in Building Services for Acoustic Compliance
Noise from mechanical and electrical building services is a common cause of internal disturbance and external complaint, particularly in mixed-use and high-density developments. Plant such as ventilation systems, air source heat pumps, chillers, pumps, and boosted water sets can generate airborne noise and vibration that must be properly controlled to protect occupants and neighbouring properties.
We provide acoustic assessment and design advice to manage noise from building services at both design and operational stages. This includes assessment of likely noise emissions, identification of transmission paths within and beyond the building, and the development of proportionate mitigation measures that can be delivered in practice.
Early input during design helps avoid late-stage compliance issues, while post-installation verification provides assurance that systems perform as intended once operational. Our work supports planning approval, Building Regulations compliance, and BREEAM requirements, while ensuring that building services operate effectively without compromising the acoustic environment.
What We Do
Our mechanical and building services noise control work includes:
BS 8233 assessments to ensure ventilation and building services noise does not exceed internal guideline limits within occupied spaces.
BS 4142 assessments of plant noise emissions to neighbouring premises, including baseline noise surveys, source data review, prediction, and mitigation design where required.
Internal noise calculations using recognised engineering methodologies, including CIBSE Guide B and ASHRAE approaches, to support the design of attenuation, duct linings, and vibration isolation.
Relevant Standards And Guidance
BS 8233 | BS 4142 | CIBSE Guide B | ASHRAE | ISO 5136
Typical Deliverables
Plant noise impact reports to support planning or compliance requirements
Noise breakout, duct attenuation, and internal noise calculations
Clear mitigation design and specification advice
Verification testing and commissioning support