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Chiltern Dynamics has published a new Technical Information Sheet Acoustic Testing – Achieving Compliance, which is available free of charge.
Acoustic testing became mandatory in England & Wales in 2003, when Approved
Document E was last updated. It requires new buildings and buildings formed by a material change of use to achieve a reasonable level of sound insulation between dwellings.
There are two ways of complying: either to build to Robust Details, or to conduct on site pre-completion sound insulation tests. Chiltern Dynamics Operations Manager Tom Gregory said, ‘There is a level of apprehension about acoustic testing on site, but if the design specification is followed, and a good standard of workmanship is maintained, there is very little chance of failure. Robust Details are equally strict. If developers deviate from the specification, or if workmanship is poor, then on site testing may have to be conducted anyway.’
BS EN ISO 140-4:1998 and BS EN ISO 140-7:1998 describe the procedures for conducting airborne and impact sound insulation testing. According to Approved Document E, testing bodies should be third-party accredited (ideally though UKAS). Members of the ANC (Association of Noise Consultants) Registration Scheme are also regarded as qualified. Most building control officers will require evidence of competence on submission of the sound insulation test reports.
Chiltern Dynamics’ new Technical Information Sheet TI – 0912 covers test procedures and requirements and looks at different types of construction, highlighting where the weak points may be in terms of sound insulation.
For your free copy email cif@chilternfire.co.uk.
Click here for PDF.
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