Construction Industry

Noise and Vibration in the

The impact of noise and vibration on the built environment is one of the sensitive issues commonly addressed in our modern society. Noise and vibration pollution can have structural consequences on nearby buildings and reduce the desirability of the living and working environments. This cannot be tolerated in new constructions.

With considerable experience in construction noise and vibration, soil dynamics and geotechnical engineering Reactec can work with architects, planning authorities and business representatives to take potential adverse effects into account in the early planning stages of new buildings or transit systems, long before detailed drawings are available and certainly before experimental measures can be made on new developments.

Accurate quantification of existing vibration levels
Prediction of future vibration levels
Assessments of likely impacts

Residential & Commercial Development

During project planning, appropriate noise and vibration standards/Planning Authority stipulations are reviewed, the characteristics of the surrounding area evaluated, and noise and vibration sources likely to affect the immediate environment are investigated and analysed. Existing sources such as road traffic, railway and fixed sources are measured and analysed to establish baseline conditions. Computer models are calibrated with measurements of existing vibrations at the proposed project site, and used to predict future impacts.

Potential vibration problems associated with the project are identified and evaluated. Vibration mitigation measures can then be developed if necessary with a range of potential solutions accurately simulated ensuring the most cost effective solution will satisfy requirements of Local Authorities and/or Planning departments.

Please click here for a sample case study.

Baseline noise and vibration surveys aligned with British Standards measurement guidelines (BS 5228, BS 6472, BS 7385)
Triaxial Vibration monitoring (Peak Particle Velocity (PPV) or Vibration Dosage Values (VDV)) covering human response/disturbance and building damage criteria
Technical modelling and reporting to demonstrate abatement techniques showing compliance with (Planning Authority) pre agreed noise & vibration limits (Section 60, Planning Limits etc.)

Demolition & Construction

Construction noise and vibration can be quantified, predicted and its impact on nearby land uses evaluated. Reactec is experienced in producing construction noise and vibration monitoring and reduction plans. During construction, Reactec monitors noise and vibration levels, and works with construction contractors and engineers to investigate community complaints covering human response/disturbance and building damage to determine requirements and specifications for additional mitigation measures.

Baseline noise and vibration surveys aligned with British Standards measurement guidelines (For example, BS 5228, BS 6472, BS 7385)
Triaxial vibration monitoring (Peak particle Velocity (PPV) or Vibration Dosage Values (VDV)) covering human response/disturbance and building damage criteria
Long and short term construction noise and vibration monitoring

Mitigating Your Problem

Reactec has a full range of computer modelling software designed to analyse and illustrate the propagation of noise and vibration from various sources. Our preferred method takes custom built computer models calibrated by real world data. Our experienced staff then develop optimal solutions to fit the requirements of the client. We have successfully used these techniques in projects involving road and rail vibration problems. Specific examples include:

Prediction and evaluation of the effects of road and railway transportation noise and vibration on commercial buildings, residences, and occupants;
Design and recommendation of measures to reduce transportation noise and vibration, including the specification and design/modification of building foundations, floor isolation techniques and other vibration reduction measures

Health & Safety

The construction industry is the UK's biggest industry and due to the nature of the work it is also the most dangerous. As a result Health and Safety in the construction industry has always been taken extremely seriously. Reactec has extensive experience working with industrial noise and vibration from a Health & Safety perspective; specifically Hand Arm Vibration, Whole Body Vibration and general noise related issues. We have created a personal hand-arm vibration meter in partnership with blue chip companies. Please click here for more information.

Risk Assessments: Survey of current noise and tool/equipment vibration levels
Advice on regulation compliance
Recommendation and implementation of suitable solutions
Hand Arm Vibration Management
Hand Arm Vibration – Personal Dosimetry