BS4142 Noise Assessments

Industrial and commercial noise assessments

BS4142 noise assessments are used for developments that are noise sensitive, noise generating or both.  For example, new noise sensitive residential units near existing industrial or commercial premises.  Or, new noise generating industrial facilities, that are near existing housing.

The assessment will usually form part of the planning or permitting process for the development. BS4142 assessments can also be used to assist control measures in the event of a complaint.

We use the latest British Standard BS4142:2014 +A1:2019 Methods for rating and assessing industrial and commercial sound. This details methods to rate and assess sound from:

• Industrial and manufacturing processes.
• Fixed installations (e.g. mechanical and electrical plant and equipment).
• Loading and unloading of goods and materials at industrial and/or commercial premises.
• Mobile plant and vehicles that form an intrinsic part of the overall sound emanating from premises or processes (e.g. forklift trucks).

Our approach to BS4142 noise assessments

If you are going through the planning process and require a BS4142 assessment. We always determine local policy requirements before starting out. This is because, noise policies often differ between Local Authorities. By understanding all the requirements from the outset, our report can be tailored to suit local requirements.

To reduce uncertainty in our assessment approach, we consider several technical means. Following the requirements of the Standard method. This includes using:

• Baseline sound levels over a suitable time frame.
• Class 1 monitoring equipment with manufacturers accessories and field calibrations.
• Representative measurement locations.
• Data from site measurements or equipment manufacturers, in octave or third octave bands.
• Audio recordings to analyse existing sound in the environment.
• Reference calculation models (e.g. ISO 9613).

For developments where there are many sources or receptors. We often use environmental noise modelling to illustrate noise emission.

Mitigation measures

We aim to provide mitigation advice that is simple to employ and cost effective for the end user. Following the principles of noise control, we reduce noise in the following hierarchy:

• At source.
• Along the transmission path.
• At the receptor.

Our reports are always clearly detailed. Providing policy requirements, raw data, calculations and mitigation (where appropriate). As well as the assessing consultants’ experience.

Information we will need from you

So, we can better understand all the requirements of your noise impact assessment. We ask if you are able to provide the following information.

• Site plans.
• Proposed operational hours for the unit being installed.
• Manufacturer specifications for the proposed unit to be installed.
• A secure location to store our industrial noise survey equipment.

If you are unsure where to find any of these details. Our consultants will be more than happy to give you advice and guidance.