Standards Development

Scope

This British Standard provides guidance for the control of sound in and around buildings. It is applicable to the design of new buildings, or redesign or refurbishment of existing buildings, including those undergoing a change of use. Guidance is given on levels of sound indoors and the type and character of the sound.

This British Standard does not cover:

a)    specialist applications, such as auditoria and cinemas;

       NOTE 1 For information on cinemas see BS ISO 9568.

b)    vibration control, except where it is evident in the form of radiated sound;

c)     sound that breaks out from the building and affects external receptors;

d)    sound generated inside the site or a building on site that could affect people outside the site/building; or

e)    specific sources of external neighbour and neighbourhood sound arising from an identifiable source, process or operator.

NOTE 2 Annex A describes some of the simpler types of sound calculation. A method of rating noise is described in Annex B. Methods of measurement of sound insulation are described in Annex C. Annex D outlines some special problems requiring expert advice. Annex E describes airborne and impact sound insulation. Annex F sets out the legislative framework applicable to noise producing developments. Annex G provides example calculations for resolving a typical design problem. Examples of design criteria adopted by various hotel groups are included for reference in Annex H.