BB93 (Building Bulletin 93) is a guidance document relating to Acoustic Treatments for School Building Design.
BB93 is mandatory, being part of the Approved process. Research has shown that acoustic conditions within schools impacts on both the pupil’s and staff performance.
BB93 can be a complex document to follow and interpret correctly without considerable acoustic knowledge. BB3 strongly recommends that” it is advisable to appoint a suitably qualified acoustic consultant at an early stage of the project.” Sound Solution Consultants acousticians are well qualified, very experienced and, all are Members of the Institute of Acoustics.
New school buildings including extensions and new schools, formed by change of use of other buildings, are included in BB93. It is often also used as a guidance document for colleges and universities. Rooms used for nursery and adult/community education are covered by Part E.
Sound Solution Consultants can help you make the BB93 noise survey run both smoothly and effectively by taking care of all acoustic matters and, liaising with the Architect to also ensure that the design focus is not lost.
The stages in the BB93 requirements which we can assist are:
• Drawing review.
Full drawing survey and necessary recommendations provided where required.
• Initial Noise Assessment.
A current background noise measurement is undertaken. The level of sound both internally and externally is assessed and reported. The indoor ambient noise levels includes noise contributions from outside sources i.e. road, rail and air traffic and from other premises. Building services i.e. plant and ventilation systems are also considered.
• Construction and internal design.
The (Rt) reverberation time for each type of activity room is determined. We would calculate the amount of absorption required to achieve the relevant Rt times and provide details and specifications of suitable products. The specification for acoustic sound insulation materials required between both room walls and floors is provided.
• Build Supervision.
We can provide site support either with site visit or telephone assistance to ensure that acoustic compliance is being achieved on the project.
• Commission Testing.
If testing is required at a designated stage we can provide this service.
For more information on other surveys available with Sound Solution Consultants, please visit our noise surveys page.