Construction Noise Prediction at the Planning Stage of New Developments

Construction noise prediction during the planning of new developments is recommended in BS5228, to identify where adjustments may be made to reduce noise from the works to acceptable levels. The standard includes a set of deterministic prediction methods, which it suggests may be used for this purpose. However, there seems to be little evidence that they are so used, probably because of the precise data and comprehensive application required to provide useful results. These data requirements are examined, in conjunction with the timing of the generation of information in pre-contract activities, to show that the level of detail necessary is not available. The various calculations involved, and the complexity of the construction process, are described briefly to illustrate the prohibitive amount of work that may be necessary for comprehensive application. The paper concludes that deterministic methods are not effectively usable in this context, and suggests some areas for study that may be helpful.