Sometimes, companies build new facilities or conduct operations with the best intentions in mind, only to realize that coworkers or nearby residences are being adversely affected by noise emanating from their activities. Even when utilizing materials and practices designed to minimize noise, unanticipated excess noise or nuisance frequencies can lead to noise-related issues.
Whether it is a daycare, a fitness center, a grocery store, warehouse, or retail outlet, unwanted noise can unintentionally pollute the environment and cause your company trouble it does not need. In such cases, it’s often a good idea to enlist the assistance of a professional Acoustical Engineer to assesses the situation, isolate the source of the unwanted noise, and suggest a solution to resolve the issue.
Effects Of Loud Noise On The Body
- Lack of sleep
- Missing work
- Lower performance at home, work, or school
- Hearing problems
- Higher blood pressure
- Higher stress levels
- Cardiovascular issues like heart attacks and stroke
- Concentration issues
- Problems healing
- Agitation, nervousness, and depression
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Problems learning new concepts
What Is An Acoustical Engineer?
An Acoustical Engineer (or Acoustician) performs many job functions, but the primary objectives are to analyze sound sources, and suggest options that reduce or eliminate the nuisance noise that is affecting the receiver(s). In essence, Acoustic Engineers solve problems associated with noise pollution.
There are many subsets and categories in this field, similar to the business management or medical fields. An Acoustician can specialize in any subcategory like noise control for fracking operations, highway noise, or even underwater sound management.
Job Duties Of An Acoustic Sound Barrier Expert
- Manage projects where sound control is necessary
- Understand vibrations and how they affect humans
- Collecting audio data
- Analyzing information and researching viable solutions
- Finding the most affordable solution for industrial noise control
- Tailoring sound barrier walls to meet and exceed client needs
- Perform site inspections and measure for sound absorption panels
- Use software programs like CAD and 3D modeling programs
- Go over blueprints and engineering documents
- Oversee junior sound advisors and teams of acoustic engineers
- Attend design meetings
- Collaborate with clients
- Provide visual representations of sound wall designs
- Plan and account for spending on acoustic projects
- Manage construction guidelines and timetables
- Oversee quality and provide acoustic testing
- Address issues with a solid understanding of client budget
- Perform timely inspections and sound abatement setup
Three Common Noise Culprits That Can Be Remedied With The Use Of Noise Barriers
The need for noise mitigation arises from three primary offenders. These noise sources are human noise, traffic, and machinery. Consider for a moment an HVAC system on top of a residential building for maintaining a cool building and an adjustable atmosphere for tenants. The cooling system emits a range of frequencies that should not be a problem for residents since the unit is on the roof. However, tenants in an adjacent building or elevated level are affected by the HVAC noise control that seems to never to go away.
When the equipment does cycle off, it is typically only for a few minutes before returning. It such cases, an Acoustician can isolate the nuisance frequencies and pinpoint the affected residents. Once done, the engineer can design an attenuation remedy utilizing sound absorbing panels that will significantly reduce the noise.
Why Businesses Need Absorptive Sound Walls
- To remain compliant with local noise regulations and laws
- To be good stewards of the environment and protect wildlife and natural habitats
- To reduce health issues on nearby residents
- To improve quality of life for other workers, nearby businesses, and locals
Customizing The Right Noise Barrier Solution
Sound Fighter Systems (SFS) is a leading absorptive barrier manufacturer that works side by side with Acousticians around the world on noise issues in many industries. One recent project in Louisiana was in need of sound barriers that they could relocate to different locations as noise problems arose, yet were easy to disassemble and store when not in use. SFS partnered with an acoustical engineer to create a viable solution that was mobile and cost effective.
Knowing When An Acoustician Is Needed
You know that noise is going to be a concern no matter where you locate your operation. In the outskirts of town, environmental agencies worry about wildlife, while working in town creates problems for nearby residents. Every state and municipality has or will have laws requiring businesses to comply with sound ordinances and regulations.
Knowing if and when you need to hire an expert Acoustician is a critical consideration that can ultimately help avoid contentious or even litigious issues from arising. SFS leans on it’s 50 years of real world noise experience to help guide its customers through that process. Their trained staff can assess the need for an Acoustician for your particular application, and if one is needed, they can then introduce you to one that specializes in your specific area of concern.
And When A Sound Wall Is Needed…
If you find yourself or your company in need of a legitimate, top-performing outdoor noise reduction panels, to turn America’s oldest sound absorbing barrier manufacturer Sound Fighter Systems. At SFS, we create aesthetically pleasing walls that absorb sound and eliminate it instead of reflecting it back into the environment. Our team works closely with you and if needed Acousticians, to find and create the right noise barrier wall solution for your specific needs.
Our barriers are weatherproof, waterproof, non-corrosive, non-conductive, non-flammable, lightweight, and will not rot. For more information, please call 1-866-348-0833.
Dan says
I’m looking for someone to work with to solve a major world wide noise pollution problem that happens in everyday life. Have been thinking about this for years. Will benefit everyone, I’m sure it wouldn’t be easy to solve but has many benefits. I will explain in more detail when and if I get an answer.