29/10/2010 02:21 PM
Schools that are told they emit excessive noise may wish to consider acoustic fencing to help combat the problem.
While the legalities surrounding school and playground noise are far from specific, the Times Educational Supplement (TES) reports, a measure like the installation of sound proof fencing may be the most effective action to take.
Speaking to the TES, Steve Garritt, of noise consultants S&D Garritt, said that the rules of noise limits are vague.
"Confusingly, there are several different British standards relating to acceptable noise limits," he said.
"In any case, an environmental health officer isn't obliged to take account of those standards. There's a strong element of subjectivity."
One option, then, if disputes over noise are ever taken to court – and some often are – is acoustic fencing.
"If a school does have to cut down on noise, one option is sound proof fencing. Typically two metres high and made from either wood, metal or plastic, an "acoustic fence" is completely solid, meaning there are no gaps for sound to pass through," the newspaper said.
While the legalities surrounding school and playground noise are far from specific, the Times Educational Supplement (TES) reports, a measure like the installation of sound proof fencing may be the most effective action to take.
Speaking to the TES, Steve Garritt, of noise consultants S&D Garritt, said that the rules of noise limits are vague.
"Confusingly, there are several different British standards relating to acceptable noise limits," he said.
"In any case, an environmental health officer isn't obliged to take account of those standards. There's a strong element of subjectivity."
One option, then, if disputes over noise are ever taken to court – and some often are – is acoustic fencing.
"If a school does have to cut down on noise, one option is sound proof fencing. Typically two metres high and made from either wood, metal or plastic, an "acoustic fence" is completely solid, meaning there are no gaps for sound to pass through," the newspaper said.
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