Industrial noise: measurement, testing and advice.
Industrial businesses produce noise from machinery, fans, compressors, cooling installations, transport and loading and unloading. Noise production is bound by the standards from the municipal environmental plan and the environmental permit. Exceedance can lead to enforcement, fines and operational restrictions.
Schedule free consultationStandards for industrial noise
Since 1 January 2024 the noise rules for businesses no longer derive from the Activiteitenbesluit, but from the municipal environmental plan (omgevingsplan) and the Environmental Activities Decree (Besluit activiteiten leefomgeving, Bal). In many municipalities the former limit values from the Activiteitenbesluit still apply as transitional law, until the municipality has revised its environmental plan. We measure and report in accordance with the current measurement rules from the Environmental Regulation (Omgevingsregeling). In many municipalities the familiar limit values therefore still apply: 50 dB(A) during the day, 45 dB(A) evening and 40 dB(A) night at the façade of noise-sensitive uses (homes, schools, care institutions). For tonal noise (recognisable beep or hum) 5 dB is added. For impulse noise (bangs, hits) likewise 5 dB. For low-frequency noise separate assessment criteria apply. Specific business types can have divergent standards via custom regulations.
Our services for businesses and industry
Sound measurement at the source and at the nearest homes. Calculation of the noise load using acoustic calculation models. Testing against the environmental plan and the permit conditions. Advice on noise-reducing measures: enclosures, silencers, absorption materials, sound screens and adjustment of operational processes. Reporting usable for permit application, enforcement or environmental impact assessment. We have acoustic calculation models with which we can accurately predict the noise load on the environment, also for future expansions or changes in the business process.
Zone management and environmental impact assessment
For larger businesses and industrial estates we also perform acoustic research for industrial zoning, zoning plans and environmental impact assessments. We work across the Benelux and know the regulations in both the Netherlands and Belgium. We also advise on expansion plans and new permit applications, so your business meets all noise requirements before production starts.
When is acoustic research required?
Acoustic research is required for the application or modification of an environmental permit, for expansion of operational activities, for resident complaints leading to an enforcement request and when preparing an environmental impact assessment. Also for zone management on industrial estates, regular monitoring of the noise load is necessary.
Consultation or direct quote
Schedule a free consultation or request a direct quote via the form. We respond within one business day.