The 5 Steps for a Planning Noise Assessment

Impact assessment

Prior to the noise survey the acoustic consultant will need to know the noise parameters set by the local environmental protection team for the required noise impact assessment.

1^st Step – Baseline situation

It will usually be necessary to have a full understanding of the existing noise levels in the vicinity of the receptor. This can be achieved by carrying out a planning noise survey of background or ambient noise levels over the period when the noise source will be operational.

The baseline noise levels will usually be determined by measuring the LA90 or the LAeq, however in practice both will usually be measured simultaneously.

The term ‘LA90’ is the ‘A’ weighted noise level exceeded for 90% of the measurement period. Typically this is called the background noise level if it relates to a period when the noise source is not operational.

The ‘A’ weighting is a correction applied within a sound level meter to adjust the response of the Class A noise meter to match the response of human hearing at different frequencies. This is used to exclude short-term noises, such as a vehicle passing from the measurement value, leaving only the underlying or background noise.

The terms ‘LAeq’ is as an average noise level over the measurement period, although it relates to the average noise energy. It is a popular and universally used measure which correlates well with human annoyance.

Step 2 – Noise sources and times of operation

A detailed knowledge of the noise source (or in the case of a proposed development, the likely noise source) is also essential. This is because noise levels are of less importance than the amount by which they exceed the baseline noise and the times or days of operation.

Step 3 – Manufacturer Data for Proposed Equipment

If the proposed development will create a source of noise, the noise consultant may need the manufacturer’s data for proposed equipment, times of operation and working practices.

Step 4 – Determining the impact

Noise impact is determined using a variety of methods, all of which will rely on comparing noise levels at a receptor against absolute noise level criteria or against existing baseline noise levels. Generally one of three approaches is used:

1. Where the proposal is for a development which will introduce an industrial type noise source, or where a receptor in a new development may be affected by this type of source, it is usual to assess impact by comparing the noise level, after making corrections for certain attributes of the noise, against background noise levels at the receptor (existing or proposed). The council expects that, at the receptor, noise from the source is a certain amount below existing background levels. Typical cases include new equipment in a business, an air conditioning unit or an extract and fan serving a restaurant. This is known as the BS4142 methodology.
2. In some cases the impact does not depend on a comparison between source levels and baseline levels. For example, a proposed housing development is close to an existing road, where generally the impact is determined by establishing whether the absolute levels due to the source are acceptable.
3. Applications for certain developments may require a more specialist approach. For example, the method for assessing a new nightclub combines both elements. Existing levels of noise in low frequency bands are measured and compared against levels in those same frequencies with music playing. The council may then require that the music does not cause any increase above existing levels.

Step 5 – Noise mitigation measures

Development proposals which are inherently noisy may include mitigation measures in the original scheme. However, the need for further mitigation may be necessary when the impact assessment indicates that the acceptability criteria are exceeded. Either way noise mitigation, or reduction measures, should be considered in the assessment in demonstrating how the acceptability criteria will be achieved.

The most effective measures will be those which reduce levels at source, rather than in transmission or at the receptor. However, in situations such as where the proposal is for new housing near existing sources of noise, it will not be possible to reduce source noise levels. Where the proposal will introduce a new noise source it is good practice to reduce levels at source as far as possible, before considering other mitigation measures, some of these may be:

1. Reduction of noise at source – Using equipment or systems with lower sound power levels is highly effective and can avoid the need for other more costly and intrusive mitigation options. Noise impact can be lessened by reducing total running times or by shifting operations to less sensitive times of the day. The use of acoustic silencers and enclosures around the source may also be effective at reducing the need for other mitigation methods.

• Reduction of noise in transmission – The simplest way to reduce noise once emitted is by increasing the distance to receptors. For example, siting of plant and equipment within an industrial site as far away from sensitive receptors as possible and/or the new housing development may be designed so that properties are set back from a noise source. In many cases, a properly calculated buffer zone between source and receptor will represent the most cost effective solution.
• Reduction of noise at a receptor –  if the development is located in a busy urban area, this may be the only option to reduce the noise impact, also where the applicant has no access to land for the construction of a barrier. The way a development is designed can be an effective mitigation tool if the building faces away from the main noise source. Also, if noise sensitive rooms are located on the sheltered side of the building, the impact will be reduced at the most sensitive areas.
• Acoustic Improvements to the building façade – Where no other options are available, improving the sound insulation of a building facade can be effective in reducing internal noise levels. However, often it will be necessary to provide acoustic treated mechanical ventilation to avoid the need to open windows in warm or humid weather, this is often the solution next to busy elevated railway lines.

Here at APT Sound Testing, we can offer a detailed survey report and outline possible mitigation measures with noise mapping to show the ‘real life’ effectiveness of the measures. Such assessments can cover extraction systems, air conditioners, industrial plant, refrigeration units, and general use of industrial buildings.

If you would like more information in regards to our planning noise surveys for planning and acoustic design for your development, please visit the APT Sound Testing website or call us today on 01525 303905.

Planning Noise Surveys: A Practical Guide for Developers

When applying for planning permission, one of the most common hurdles is meeting noise assessment requirements. At APT Sound Testing, we specialise in carrying out planning noise surveys that support applications across a wide range of developments — from residential apartments to industrial sites.

With extensive experience in both BS8233 Noise Assessments (for residential projects) and BS4142 Noise Surveys (for commercial and industrial schemes), we help developers, architects, and planning consultants demonstrate compliance while achieving practical, cost-effective noise control solutions.

Below, we break down the two most common survey types requested by local authorities.

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BS8233 Noise Surveys for Residential Developments

If you’re applying for planning permission for new houses, flats, or hotels, a BS8233 Noise Survey is often required. Local authorities want to know how your development will be affected by, or contribute to, existing noise sources such as:

• Roads, railways, and air traffic
• Industrial activity
• Entertainment venues

We’ve delivered hundreds of BS8233 surveys — from single dwellings to large-scale residential schemes. Our reports provide practical acoustic design advice, helping you create high-quality living environments while satisfying planning requirements.

Why BS8233 surveys matter:

• They ensure compliance with the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).
• They protect future residents with good internal acoustic conditions and external sound mitigation (for example, acoustic fencing for gardens).

👉 If your local authority has asked for a BS8233 Noise Survey, call 01525 303905 or email info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk.

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BS4142 Noise Surveys for Industrial & Commercial Sites

Industrial and commercial noise is a growing concern for planning authorities — particularly where housing sits alongside factories, retail units, or plant machinery. That’s where BS4142 Noise Surveys come in.

You’ll typically need this survey if your project involves:

• New or expanded industrial plants near residential areas
• Redevelopment of brownfield sites
• Installation of plant equipment (e.g., air conditioning, extraction fans, or refrigeration systems)

How we assess BS4142 noise impacts:

1. We measure existing background noise levels (often over 24 hours).
2. We predict or monitor the additional impact of your proposed noise source.
3. Using the BS4142 method, we determine whether the noise is likely to disturb nearby residents.

Our reports include:

• Clear survey findings
• Noise mapping to show the effectiveness of mitigation measures
• Practical recommendations to reduce potential impacts

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Why Choose APT Sound Testing?

We provide more than just noise surveys — we deliver end-to-end acoustic solutions. Our services cover:

• Residential, commercial, and educational buildings
• Pre-completion sound testing and certification
• Acoustic design advice at every stage of your project
• UKAS-accredited air tightness testing, offered as part of combined packages to save you time and costs

With our proactive, experienced team, you’ll get the technical expertise you need alongside a smooth, stress-free process for meeting planning conditions.

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📞 Get in Touch
Need a BS8233 or BS4142 Noise Survey for your development? Call us today on 01525 303905 or email info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk.

Planning Noise Surveys: What You Need to Know

At APT Sound Testing, we specialise in carrying out planning noise surveys that support planning applications across a wide range of developments. With extensive experience in BS8233 Noise Assessments for residential projects and BS4142 Industrial Noise Surveys for commercial and industrial schemes, we help clients meet planning requirements while ensuring effective noise control solutions.

Below, we’ve broken down the two most common types of surveys requested by local authorities.

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BS8233 Noise Surveys for Residential Developments

When applying for planning permission on new apartments, houses, or hotels, a BS8233 Noise Survey is often required. Local authorities want to understand how new developments will be affected by, or contribute to, existing noise sources, such as:

• Transport (roads, rail, air traffic)
• Entertainment venues
• Industrial activity

We’ve completed hundreds of successful BS8233 surveys, supporting planning consultants, architects, developers, and private clients. Our goal is to deliver cost-effective and practical acoustic solutions at the design stage, whether it’s a single dwelling or a large apartment block.

Why it matters:

• Ensures developments meet the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) requirements.
• Protects future residents by providing good internal acoustic conditions (through proper building design) and external sound control (such as acoustic fencing for gardens).

👉 If your local authority has requested a BS8233 Noise Survey, call us on 01525 303905 or email info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk.

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BS4142 Noise Surveys for Industrial & Commercial Developments

Noise from industrial sites is a growing concern for planning authorities, especially where residential and industrial areas meet. If you’ve received a planning condition requiring a BS4142 Plant Noise Survey, we can help.

Typical scenarios include:

• Industrial plants near housing developments
• Brownfield site redevelopments
• Machinery, air conditioning units, refrigeration systems, or extraction fans

How it works:

• We measure existing noise levels in the area (often over 24 hours).
• We then predict or measure the additional impact of your proposed noise source.
• Using the BS4142 assessment method, we establish whether the noise will affect local residents’ quality of life.

Our consultants provide:

• Detailed survey reports
• Noise mapping to demonstrate mitigation effectiveness
• Practical recommendations for reducing noise impact

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Why Choose APT Sound Testing?

We provide more than just surveys, we deliver end-to-end acoustic solutions. Our services cover:

• Residential, commercial, and educational buildings
• Pre-completion sound testing and certification
• Acoustic design advice at every stage of development
• UKAS-accredited air tightness testing, available as part of a combined package to save time and costs

Our team is highly experienced, friendly, and proactive, helping you meet planning conditions smoothly and efficiently.

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📞 Get in Touch
Need a BS8233 or BS4142 Noise Survey for your project? Contact us today on 01525 303905 or email info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk.

Planning Noise Surveys: What You Need to Know

When planning a new residential or mixed-use development, noise impact is one of the many environmental factors that local authorities take seriously. Whether you’re developing a block of flats, a housing estate, or converting a commercial building into residential use, you may need to submit a noise survey as part of your planning application.

At APT Sound Testing, we specialise in carrying out detailed and cost-effective noise assessments in line with national planning guidelines. With vast experience in both BS8233 and BS4142 noise assessments, we’ve helped hundreds of developers, architects, planning consultants, and homeowners successfully navigate the acoustic requirements tied to planning approval.

Let’s break down what planning noise surveys involve and why they matter for your project.

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BS8233 Noise Assessments: Protecting Residential Spaces from External Noise

BS8233 noise surveys are most commonly requested when applying for planning permission for new homes, apartments, or hotels. Local authorities typically want to understand the potential impact of environmental noise on future occupants, ensuring any new development provides a comfortable living environment.

Why Are They Important?

Residential properties are susceptible to a range of external noise sources, from road traffic and railway lines to nearby commercial premises and entertainment venues. A BS8233 assessment helps ensure that external noise doesn’t intrude on the internal environment, safeguarding the health and wellbeing of future residents.

Under the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) in England and Wales, planning applications for noise-sensitive developments must demonstrate that noise has been considered and managed appropriately. A well-conducted noise survey does just that, by providing evidence-based recommendations for acoustic insulation and noise mitigation.

What’s Involved?

At APT Sound Testing, we carry out a thorough site assessment, usually over a 24-hour period, to capture ambient noise levels at the location. From there, we use the data to evaluate how sound may impact the proposed development. Based on our findings, we provide practical and cost-effective design guidance on noise control measures, such as upgraded glazing, acoustic ventilation, and boundary treatments like fencing or walls.

We’ve worked on everything from single dwellings to large multi-unit developments, so we can tailor our advice to suit your specific project and budget.

If your local authority has requested a BS8233 noise survey, don’t hesitate to reach out to us on 01525 303905 or email info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk. You can also learn more by visiting our BS8233 Noise Surveys page.

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BS4142 Noise Surveys: Managing Industrial Noise Impact

In contrast to BS8233, which is concerned with protecting residential interiors from environmental noise, BS4142 assessments are focused on evaluating the impact of industrial noise sources on nearby sensitive receivers, usually homes, schools, or other noise-sensitive buildings.

When Do You Need a BS4142 Survey?

If your project includes any mechanical plant (such as air conditioning units, refrigeration equipment, or extraction systems) or is near existing industrial or commercial activity, a BS4142 survey may be required as part of your planning conditions.

This is especially common where industrial and residential developments are being placed in close proximity, something we’re seeing more frequently due to brownfield redevelopment projects.

How Does the Survey Work?

The BS4142 assessment method compares the background sound level of an area with the noise level generated by an industrial or commercial source. This helps determine whether the new or existing noise will cause a disturbance to nearby residents.

Our process typically involves:

• Baseline monitoring over a 24-hour period to measure existing background noise (using LA90 values).
• Operational noise monitoring with the source active to identify its contribution to the overall soundscape.
• Impact predictions, where we model how a new noise source will affect nearby receptors before it’s even installed.

Our expert team uses this data to evaluate the significance of the noise impact, taking into account not only sound levels but also character (such as tonal or impulsive elements) and time of operation (day vs. night).

We provide a detailed written report that includes results, analysis, and clear recommendations for mitigation if necessary. This may include acoustic enclosures, silencers, or changes to operational times—plus noise mapping visualisations to show the effectiveness of proposed measures.

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A Complete Solution from Start to Finish

At APT Sound Testing, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive service that goes beyond noise assessments. In addition to acoustic design support, we also provide UKAS-accredited air tightness testing, allowing you to combine services into one seamless package. This approach can reduce project delays, minimise costs, and ensure your development complies with all the necessary standards.

Our experienced acoustic consultants are here to guide you from planning through to project completion, ensuring your development meets all environmental noise requirements. Whether you’re dealing with tight design constraints, complex site conditions, or challenging planning conditions, we’ll help you find the most effective solution.

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Get in Touch

If you’ve been asked to submit a noise assessment, whether under BS8233 or BS4142, as part of your planning application, we’re here to help. We offer a responsive, friendly service tailored to the unique requirements of your project.

📞 Call us on 01525 303905
📧 Email us at info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk
📩 Or use our online contact form and one of our consultants will get back to you promptly.

Let’s make sure noise doesn’t stand in the way of your planning approval.

Planning Noise Surveys & Assessments

Professional BS8233 and BS4142 Noise Assessments by APT Sound Testing

At APT Sound Testing, we specialise in providing expert planning noise surveys to support planning applications for all types of developments, from small residential builds to large commercial or industrial sites. With extensive experience in BS8233 Noise Assessments and BS4142 Industrial Noise Assessments, we help ensure your project meets the acoustic requirements of local planning authorities.

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BS8233 Noise Surveys – Residential Noise Assessments

If you’re developing new homes, apartments, or hotels, your local planning authority may request a BS8233 Noise Assessment as part of your planning conditions. This survey helps determine the impact of external noise sources, such as roads, railways, entertainment venues, or nearby industrial activities, on the proposed development.

Why BS8233 Noise Assessments Are Required:

• To assess the suitability of the site for residential use.
• To design effective noise mitigation strategies.
• To meet the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) guidelines for protecting future occupants from noise exposure.

We’ve conducted hundreds of successful noise surveys for residential schemes across the UK, working with architects, planning consultants, developers, and homeowners. Our goal is always to recommend practical and cost-effective acoustic solutions that can be implemented early in the design stage, avoiding costly retrofits later on.

Need a BS8233 Noise Survey for your project?
📞 Call us today on 01525 303905 or 📧 email info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk
🔗 Learn more about BS8233 Noise Surveys

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BS4142 Noise Surveys – Industrial and Commercial Noise Assessments

Planning authorities increasingly require BS4142 Noise Assessments for developments that introduce new noise sources, such as industrial plant, extraction systems, or air conditioning units, especially where these developments are near existing housing.

At APT Sound Testing, we offer comprehensive BS4142 surveys to assess and mitigate the impact of industrial noise on nearby residential areas.

Our BS4142 Services Include:

• 24-hour monitoring of existing background noise levels (LA90).
• Prediction or measurement of noise from proposed or existing sources.
• Detailed reporting with mitigation recommendations and noise mapping.
• Expert support for planning applications and compliance monitoring.

These assessments are crucial for mixed-use developments, especially when residential properties are situated close to operational industrial or commercial units. Our experienced consultants use the latest equipment and methodologies to deliver accurate, actionable results.

Need a BS4142 Noise Assessment for your development?
📞 Call us now on 01525 303905 or 📧 email info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk

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Why Choose APT Sound Testing?

• Over a decade of experience in noise surveys and acoustic consultancy
• Nationwide coverage with fast turnaround times
• Clear, jargon-free reporting tailored to your planning needs
• Proven track record of successful planning outcomes

Don’t let noise compliance delay your planning application. Partner with APT Sound Testing to get expert support and peace of mind from start to finish.

# About the Author

Darren Helliwell is a building performance specialist with over 25 years of hands-on experience leveraging thermal imaging, blower door testing, and smoke analysis to optimise air tightness in both new-build and refurbishment projects such as Battersea Power Station, Imperial War Museum and Harrods.

Using advanced infrared thermal imaging cameras alongside state-of-the-art blower door and smoke-testing equipment, Darren’s team delivers detailed thermographic surveys across residential and commercial buildings. These thermal imaging surveys pinpoint invisible air leaks, identify insulation defects, and reveal thermal bridging—empowering architects, contractors, and property owners to make targeted, energy-saving improvements.

Darren’s ongoing mission is to help design teams and contractors harness the power of thermal imaging to achieve truly airtight, energy-efficient building envelopes. By reducing heat loss and driving down energy bills, his thermography expertise supports sustainable, cost-effective construction and refurbishment outcomes.

Connect with Darren Helliwell: 

[Thermal Imaging Surveys] Thermal Imaging Surveys | APT Building Thermography Reports 

[APT Email] info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk  

[LinkedIn] https://www.linkedin.com/in/darren-helliwell-78789b26

Plant Noise Surveys: Ensuring Compliance & Peace of Mind

Have you received a planning condition requiring a plant noise survey in line with BS4142? At APT Sound Testing, we specialise in providing expert noise assessments tailored to meet regulatory requirements and protect residential amenity.

Noise from industrial and commercial plant is an increasing concern for planning authorities. With the government’s continued focus on redeveloping brownfield sites, residential and industrial zones are becoming more closely intertwined. This proximity often leads to challenges around noise pollution, particularly where plant equipment operates around the clock. As a result, managing industrial noise levels has become a critical aspect of gaining planning approval and safeguarding community wellbeing.

At APT Sound Testing, we provide fully compliant BS4142 industrial noise surveys, helping clients meet local authority demands and maintain good relations with neighbouring residents.

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Importance of Plant Noise Surveys

A plant noise survey assesses the sound emissions from industrial or commercial machinery, such as HVAC systems, extract fans, refrigeration units, and generators, against the background noise levels of the surrounding area. When these installations are near homes or noise-sensitive premises like schools or hospitals, controlling noise becomes essential.

Planning conditions often stipulate that the cumulative noise level from all fixed plant on-site must not exceed certain thresholds when measured at the site boundary or the nearest sensitive receptor. A plant noise survey provides the data required to demonstrate compliance, or highlight the need for mitigation measures.

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Understanding BS4142 Noise Assessments

BS4142:2014+A1:2019 is the British Standard used to assess the impact of industrial and commercial sound on residential areas. It provides a methodology for evaluating how much a new or existing plant installation will affect nearby residents. Our assessments involve:

• Baseline Monitoring: Measuring the existing background noise (typically using LA90 – the level exceeded for 90% of the time) over a 24-hour period, ensuring both day and night conditions are captured.
• Plant Noise Measurement: If the plant is operational, we measure its contribution directly. If not yet installed, we predict the impact based on manufacturer data and real-world benchmarks.
• Comparison & Analysis: We compare the plant noise level to the background level. The greater the difference, the higher the likelihood of adverse impact.
• Character Corrections: We account for tonal or impulsive characteristics (e.g., humming, banging, or whining) which can increase the perceived annoyance of the noise.

A high-quality BS4142 report will clearly present these findings and offer evidence-based recommendations.

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Why Choose APT Sound Testing for Your Plant Noise Surveys?

At APT Sound Testing, we have extensive experience delivering plant noise assessments across the UK. Whether you’re installing a new HVAC system in a mixed-use development or operating a commercial unit near a residential area, we offer:

• Comprehensive Surveying: Using cutting-edge Norsonic sound level meters and data loggers, UKAS calibrated to ensure accuracy, we conduct thorough 24-hour noise monitoring.
• Expert Reporting: Our detailed reports are easy to understand and planning-compliant, often including 3D noise mapping to visually demonstrate potential impacts and mitigation benefits.
• Mitigation Design: Where necessary, we propose effective and cost-conscious solutions—such as acoustic enclosures, attenuators, or barriers—to ensure compliance.
• Responsive Service: With a central London office and teams across the UK, we can respond quickly to urgent requests and provide last-minute testing, including out-of-hours and weekend availability.

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Acoustic Testing Beyond Plant Noise

In addition to plant noise surveys, APT Sound Testing offers a full range of acoustic testing and consultancy services. We are UKAS accredited to carry out sound insulation testing in line with Approved Document E of the Building Regulations. Our work spans:

• Residential Developments: Including new builds, conversions, and housing developments requiring pre-completion sound testing.
• Commercial and Educational Buildings: Ensuring compliance in schools, offices, hotels, and healthcare facilities.
• Design Stage Consultancy: Providing early-stage design input to reduce the risk of failure and avoid costly remedial work.

With decades of combined industry experience, our team of acoustic engineers takes a proactive approach to ensure your project stays compliant and on schedule.

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Our Commitment to Quality and Customer Satisfaction

At APT Sound Testing, customer satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do. From initial contact through to final report delivery, we offer a personal, professional, and transparent service. Our high return-client rate speaks to our reliability, expertise, and attention to detail.

We understand the importance of buildability and budget constraints, which is why our consultancy always focuses on practical, real-world solutions. By continually investing in both our team and our equipment, we ensure our clients receive the highest standard of service across every project.

Whether you’re a developer, contractor, architect, or property manager, we’re here to help guide your project through its acoustic challenges and ensure it meets all regulatory requirements.

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Get in Touch

If your local authority has requested a BS4142 plant noise survey, or if you’re in the early stages of design and want to get ahead of potential issues, we’d love to help.

Call us on: 01525 303905
Email: info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk
Website: www.aptsoundtesting.co.uk

Let’s work together to keep your project on track, on time, and fully compliant.