What is BREEAM?
BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is a widely used sustainability assessment method for buildings. It evaluates various environmental and sustainability factors, including energy efficiency, materials, water use, and acoustics.
BREEAM Acoustic Assessment Overview
The BREEAM Acoustic Assessment focuses on evaluating and improving the acoustic performance of a building. This ensures that buildings provide comfortable sound environments for their occupants, reducing noise disturbance and enhancing overall well-being. The assessment covers different types of buildings, such as offices, residential developments, schools, healthcare facilities, and retail spaces, aligning with the requirements of BS 8233, BB93, and ISO 140/ISO 16283 series standards.
Key Acoustic Criteria in BREEAM
BREEAM awards credits under the Health & Wellbeing (Hea 05) category based on meeting certain acoustic performance benchmarks. The main elements assessed include:
1. Sound Insulation
- Evaluates airborne and impact sound insulation between internal spaces and between the building and external sources.
- Relevant Standards: ISO 140-4 / ISO 16283-1 (Field Measurement of Airborne Sound), ISO 140-7 / ISO 16283-2 (Impact Sound).
2. Indoor Ambient Noise Levels (IANL)
- Ensures that internal noise levels from external sources (e.g., traffic, industrial noise) and building services (e.g., HVAC systems) are within recommended limits.
- Relevant Standards: BS 8233 (Guidance on Sound Insulation and Noise Reduction for Buildings).
3. Reverberation Time (RT)
- Assesses the time it takes for sound to decay in a space, ensuring good speech intelligibility and sound clarity.
- Key Areas: Classrooms, offices, healthcare spaces.
- Relevant Standards: BB93 (for schools), BS 8233.
4. Noise from Building Services
- Measures the noise from mechanical ventilation, air conditioning units, and other building services.
- Relevant Standards: CIBSE Guide B4, BS 4142.
5. External Noise Impact
- Evaluates how much noise the building generates in its surroundings, particularly in mixed-use and residential areas.
- Relevant Standards: BS 4142 (Rating Industrial Noise Affecting Mixed Residential and Industrial Areas).
How Are BREEAM Acoustic Credits Awarded?
BREEAM assigns 1 to 4 credits depending on compliance with specific acoustic criteria:
• 1 Credit: Meeting minimum performance in sound insulation, ambient noise levels, and reverberation.
• 2 Credits: Achieving enhanced levels of acoustic comfort.
• 3+ Credits: Additional recognition for outstanding acoustic design in specialized buildings (e.g., hospitals, schools).
Why is a BREEAM Acoustic Assessment Important?
• Improves occupant comfort in homes, offices, and public buildings.
• Reduces noise pollution from external and internal sources.
• Enhances building sustainability ratings, increasing property value.
• Ensures compliance with national and international acoustic standards.
BREEAM Acoustic Assessment: A Guide
BREEAM Acoustic Assessments are a critical part of sustainable building design. By ensuring compliance with acoustic performance standards, buildings can create quieter, more comfortable environments while securing valuable sustainability credits.