The Silent Threat: Why Acoustics Matter in Ventilation

We often focus on aspects of indoor environmental quality: temperature, light, and air Quality. But what about the soundscape of our buildings?

On this episode of Air Quality Matters, I sat down with Jack Harvie-Clark , founder of Apex Acoustics Ltd and a leading voice in the acoustics field, to discuss the often-overlooked impact of sound on our health and well-being, and its crucial role in effective ventilation strategies.

The Hidden Health Impacts of Noise

As Jack highlighted, the World Health Organization recognises noise as the second biggest environmental burden on health, just after air quality. Transportation noise, in particular, has been linked to a range of health issues, from annoyance and sleep disturbance to more serious conditions like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. While this might seem surprising, the link becomes clearer when we understand how our bodies react to noise.

Jack explained that noise triggers a physiological stress response, elevating our heart rate and putting us in a state of heightened alertness. This “fight-or-flight” response, while essential for survival in dangerous situations, can have detrimental effects on our health in the long term. Interestingly, even when internal noise levels are kept low, the perception of being unable to open a window due to external noise can contribute to this stress. This highlights the complex interplay between acoustics and our sense of control over our environment.

The Sound of Silence (or Lack Thereof) in Our Homes

The conversation then moved to the impact of noise within our homes, specifically from ventilation systems. Jack pointed out a common misconception: that achieving low internal noise levels through good sound insulation is enough to mitigate the negative effects of noise. However, research suggests that people feel significantly worse when they have to keep their windows closed to achieve these low levels. This sense of confinement and lack of connection with the outside world can contribute to feelings of discomfort and annoyance.

The Missing Link: Acoustics and Ventilation

One of the key takeaways from our conversation was the crucial link between acoustics and ventilation outcomes. Noise is a major reason why people turn off or obstruct ventilation systems, compromising indoor air quality and potentially leading to a host of other problems. Yet, as Jack pointed out, there is a significant gap in how we address this issue.

Despite the growing body of evidence on the health impacts of noise, there is a lack of widespread testing and monitoring of noise levels in buildings. This makes it difficult to assess the scale of the problem and to hold builders and developers accountable for meeting acoustic standards. Furthermore, the information provided by manufacturers is often insufficient for designers and installers to accurately predict and control noise levels in real-world settings.

A Call for Change

So, what can be done to improve the acoustic environment in our buildings? Jack believes that implementing mandatory testing of sound levels upon completion of construction projects would be a game-changer. This would incentivise builders to prioritise acoustics and ensure compliance with standards.

In addition to this, we need to foster a greater understanding of acoustics among ventilation professionals and empower them to make informed decisions about noise control. This includes providing clear, accessible guidance on acoustic design, specification, and installation, as well as promoting the use of sound level meters and other tools for on-site assessment.

Beyond the Decibels

Finally, our discussion touched on the exciting potential of emerging technologies, such as sound mapping and the use of sensors to monitor and analyse noise patterns in the built environment. While privacy concerns must be addressed, these advancements could provide valuable insights into the relationship between sound and human behaviour, leading to the more human-centric design and healthier, more comfortable living spaces.

Key Takeaways and Actionable Insights

• Recognise the importance of acoustics: Noise is not just an annoyance; it has a real and measurable impact on our health and well-being.
• Prioritise acoustic design in ventilation strategies: Consider noise levels when selecting and installing ventilation systems to ensure they are not turned off or obstructed due to excessive noise.
• Advocate for better standards and enforcement: Push for mandatory testing and monitoring of noise levels in buildings to hold builders accountable and drive improvements in acoustic performance.
• Educate yourself and your clients: Increase awareness of the health impacts of noise and the importance of good acoustic design in creating healthy and comfortable living spaces.

By shining a light on the often-invisible issue of noise, we can create a better built environment that supports both our physical and mental well-being.

This podcast was brought to you in partnership with

Aico - Aereco - Ultra Protect and Inbiot

Do check them out in the links and on the Air Quality Matters Website.