Environmental Acoustics
Numerous studies have highlighted the preponderance of noise pollution in public perception of nuisances.
To combat this, we intervene at various stages to address noise abatement sustainably and comprehensively.
Urban planning
We bring our expertise to urban planning teams concerned with noise and vibration issues in order to take these issues into account as early as possible and provide comprehensive urban planning solutions.
Our studies cover all sources of noise that could impact the development area:
• Road, rail and air traffic noise;
• Industrial noise;
• Technical equipment;
• Other noise sources (musical activities, leisure activities, etc…).
Our two complementary services:
• In-situ acoustic diagnosis
Our quantative and qualitative diagnoses give developers precise understanding of the sound environment, and acoustic assets and limitations.
The main sources of noise nuisance are characterised, and the readings performed identify the regulatory requirements affecting the project.
• Predictive studies
Based on 3D modelling using the acoustic diagnosis and the data provided by the client, our predictive studies outline the post-project sound environment.
They show the changes in the sound environment, its impact on the project and the neighbourhood, as well as the project’s impact on the environment. We then offer development optimisation solutions to ensure that the project is compliant and integrates perfectly into its environment.
Our studies incorporate changes in traffic, changes to the building, the appearance or disappearance of noise sources, changes in the nature of the soil, topographic changes, noise abatement measures, etc…
European Directive 2002/49/EC
We support local authorities and infrastructure managers in implementing European Directive 2002/49/EC issued by the European Union to establish a common strategy for all European countries for combating noise nuisance.
This Directive, which has been transposed into French law, defines a 2-stage action plan:
• Strategic Noise Maps
A diagnostic tool that permits decision-makers and the general public to better understand the noise environment in their area.
• Environmental Noise Prevention Plan
A tool for analysing environmental noise and implementing actions to: :
• prevent the effects of noise,
• establish corrective actions,
• protect quiet zones,
• inform and raise awareness among decision-makers and the general public.
Neighbourhood noise
Environmental noise, except in the special cases noted below, is regulated by the decree of 31 August 2006 on combating neighbourhood noise.
We carry out:
• measurements (residual noise and ambient noise) to assess the regulatory compliance of equipment and activities;
• predictive or corrective studies to establish what would be needed to upgrade them to compliance.
Musical and leisure activities
Establishments and premises open to the public and habitually broadcasting amplified music are governed by Decree 98-1143 of 15 December 1998.
This decree limits audible noise levels and their impact on the neighbourhood, and requires Noise Impact Studies to be carried out.
We carry out these studies to:
• assess the noise impact on the neighbourhood;
• assess the regulatory compliance of the facilities;
• define potential noise abatement measures to make the facilities compliant;
• prepare a report that specifies the conditions for using and adjusting the noise abatement system. This will be sent to the préfecture or municipal council to obtain the operating permit.
We also carry out acoustic studies for leisure activities governed by the Decree of 31 August 2005 regulating neighbourhood noise.
Industry: Impact studies and expert reports for Facilities Classified for Environmental Protection
We perform compliance measurements and prepare comprehensive expert reports on the environmental impact of industrial, production and power transmission sites.
For more information, please go to our dedicated page [here].
Worksite nuisance
To limit the impact of construction sites and ensure the comfort of neighbouring residents, we use the following tools to help control noise that may be created during sitework:
•Predictive studies
They predict the impact of the site and the devices and actions needed to meet regulatory requirements.
•Site monitoring
We perform measurements at key sitework stages or set up an ongoing Simulation-Monitoring (SIM-MONI) system with a dedicated web interface to provide continuous monitoring of noise and vibration.
