BS 4142 Noise Assessment Services provided by Spectrum Acoustic Consultants Ltd

09 December 2021 by Chris Anderson, Director

Outline description of BS 4142

BS 4142:2014+A1:2019 Methods for rating and assessing industrial and commercial sound is a British Standard that describes a methodology for determining if an industrial or commercial noise source may cause disturbance to residents. It is used in planning applications, environmental impact assessments, Section 61 applications and Environment Agency permit applications.

Typical scenarios where BS 4142 assessments are required?

BS 4142 is typically used where residential locations may be affected by any of the following:

1. Industrial and manufacturing plant (for example a factory or process plant);
2. M&E plant (for example, air handling units, condensers and kitchen extract fans associated with offices or restaurants);
3. Loading and unloading of vehicles (for example at distribution depots or factories); and
4. Vehicles and mobile plant associated with a site (for example fork lifts, goods trains or shipping)

How is the noise impact assessed?

The sound level generated by the industrial/commercial site is measured or calculated in accordance with BS 4142 at a position outside, or representative of a position outside, the residential location. Corrections are then applied to take into account the nature and operating periods of the sound along with the influence of any unrelated sound sources, in order to establish a ‘Rating Level’. The difference between the ‘Rating Level’ and the background sound level provides an indication of the likelihood of complaint.

When may a BS 4142 assessment typically be required?

A BS 4142 assessment is typically required for any of the following purposes:

1. An investigation following noise complaints from residents relating to an existing industrial noise
2. Prediction of the likely impact of a new industrial site;
3. Prediction of the likely impact of a modification to an existing industrial site and
4. A planning application for new housing near to an existing industrial site

Why use Spectrum Acoustic Consultants Ltd for your BS 4142 noise survey and assessment?

Spectrum have been undertaking BS 4142 surveys and assessments for over 30 years and during that time we have assessed noise from all types of industrial/commercial sound, including:

• Manufacturing
• Transport and Distribution
• Power Generation
• Petrochemical
• Leisure and Sport
• Nightclubs, Restaurants and Bars

In addition to measuring sound from existing industrial/commercial premises, we also use industry standard environmental noise modelling software to predict the impact of proposed plant modifications or new developments, in order to ensure they will not result in unacceptable sound levels. Noise modelling also provides an invaluable quick and low-cost means of undertaking cost/benefit analyses for potentially expensive noise mitigation measures, so that the most cost-effective solution can be developed.

How can we help with your project?

If you think Spectrum may be able to assist with your BS 4142 survey and assessment and would like to discuss a way forward, please get in touch via our contact page