Measurement and monitoring
Most noise investigations begin with measurements using a sound level meter. The type of instrument - and standards to which it must comply - is determined by the scope of the measurement. At Soundscape Consulting we use Type 1 precision grade instruments suitable for laboratory and field use, including environmental and building acoustics.
modelling and simulation
The propagation of sound from source to receiver is dependent on several factors, all of which are considered when calculating sound propagation potential. For the calculation of industrial, road, rail, and air traffic, as well as indoor noise propagation, a wide spectrum of national and international reference codes are employed.
impact assessment
We provide environmental noise impact assessment and management strategy services for activities requiring authorization under the National Environmental Management Act and in accordance with Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations. Provision for the regulation of environmental noise is made under the Air Quality Act but until such time as specific National Standards are set, international best practice, and guidelines published by the South African Bureau for Standards are referenced.
Noise mitigation and control
Prevention and control are integral to sustainable development and should always be applied where noise levels, exceed applicable guidelines. These measures are carefully selected to ensure protection from noise impacts while considering client requirements. Measures are generally applied at the source, at the receiver, and/or the path from source to receiver.
workplace noise
Employers are obliged to implement all reasonable precautions to protect the health and safety of workers. We offer workplace noise monitoring and assessment services taking into consideration exposure limits for different working environments. The installation of acoustic insulating materials; isolation of noise sources; and, other engineering controls are investigated and recommended for implementation, prior to the recommendation of hearing-protective devices as the final control mechanism.
shadow flicker
Wind generator turbines have noise and shadow flicker impacts where assessment and management may be a requirement for environmental authorisation. At Soundscape Consulting we assess the impact of shadow flicker and simulate management and control measures, using software specifically developed for the design of both single wind turbine generators as well as large wind farms.
training and support
We offer training and academic support in both environmental noise and air quality, including the development of source inventories, noise propagation, and, atmospheric dispersion modelling.