Sound is vibration transmitted through an elastic medium. If it travels through steel machinery, it can directly impact production. If it permeates the atmosphere of an office, sound can set nerves on edge and compromise concentration and communication.
Acoustics consultants deal with issues related to sound. They increase workplace safety and enhance comfort and performance by controlling excessive noise. This article will explore three areas of acoustical consulting and mention some of the firms that provide those services.
How acoustical consultants help architects
Each work environment is unique. Acoustical consultants help architects select the materials, designs, and technologies that will result in the least environmental noise. They consider how sound moves and what methods must be used to control its transmission. These will include walls, ceilings, and partitions as well as the choice and arrangement of furnishings.
A particularly challenging environment is open offices. A report by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) indicates that more than 80% of the companies that responded to the survey use this type of arrangement to reduce overheads. Less space is allotted to employees, increasing ambient noise levels. With speakerphones, voice mail, and computer fans, the work environment can become very distracting. In these situations, acoustical consultants rely on noise dampening technology to mitigate sound levels.
Vibration hazards
While exposure to noise from industrial machinery may be limited by hearing protection and short shifts, an acoustic consultant can help to address the problem through the direct modification of the work area. Solutions include isolating vibration sources through the use of sound absorbent barriers and replacing metal components with ones constructed with quieter materials, such as nylon. Vulnerable workers may also be enclosed in a structure such as a control room. These solutions result in both higher comfort levels for employees and lower exposure to liability for the employer.
Forensic acoustics
An unwelcome occurrence that many businesses are forced to face is a legal inquiry or action. When any type of sound is involved, forensic acoustics comes into play. The situations that call for this kind of expertise are varied. They range from negating a firm's liability by establishing that an alarm was loud enough to be heard to deciphering an incriminating message in an email to evaluating alleged hearing losses. Background noise in an airplane may be used to determine if a part produced by a company is responsible for a malfunction. Acoustical consultants can also analyze recordings for copyright infringement.
Acoustical Consultants
Proform Acoustic Surfaces LLC in Secaucus, New Jersey, is a full-service stop for acoustic needs. Once a company's requirements have been established, they provide both materials and the contracting skills to install them.
Kirkegaard Associates in Chicago, Illinois, provides consulting services in acoustics, audio video, sound isolation, and noise and vibration control. They are have worked with performing arts venues, classrooms, health care institutions, museums, and places of worship.
The Talaske Group Inc in Oak Park, Illinois, headed by acoustic consultant Richard Talaske, has been privileged to work with some of the most outstanding architects and design consultants in the world. The company specializes in developing creative solutions to meet the specific needs of their clients.
Finding an Acoustics Consultant
IndustryNet is a resource to locate acoustics consultants, or any other supplier of industrial products and services. A free online search on this page will also provide information on an extensive range of companies that manufacture and supply acoustic materials, devices, enclosures, acoustical contractors and more. IndustryNet enables potential buyers to obtain quotes and connect with suppliers directly, as well as connect on social media, download catalogs, view companies videos and more.
