Construction

Sound control in construction

The Netherlands is a densely populated country with a high level of activity. Factories, cars, trains, and airplanes, together with our compact living environments, contribute to an increasing noise burden. Noise nuisance is a common problem, especially with spatial developments. In spatial developments, noise issues often play a role. Neighbours usually fear noise nuisance from businesses and infrastructure, while companies wish to continue their operations without interruptions.

Challenges in the construction sector

The construction sector has faced significant challenges in recent years: rising interest rates, grid congestion, nitrogen and PFAS regulations, high construction costs, material shortages, and labour shortages. On top of that, factors such as changing user preferences post-Covid, geopolitical developments, and disrupted supply chains are impacting the sector.

Nevertheless, the construction sector is developing relatively steadily. According to the Economic Institute for Construction (EIB), the production volume in utility new construction will shrink slightly until 2025, before growing again from 2026 onwards. The sectors with the greatest dynamism are industry, transport and communication, as well as business services, education, healthcare, hospitality, and recreation.

Sound issues and the Environmental Act

With the introduction of the Environmental Act, the approach to noise issues has changed. Previously, there was one uniform standard for all cities, but now municipalities are responsible for setting their own noise requirements. This offers more flexibility, but also brings new challenges.

In busy areas, such as the Randstad, noise from traffic, airports, and industrial sites is increasingly building up. This calls for tailored solutions that take into account the specific situation on site. Municipalities play a crucial role by establishing the desired sound quality in the environmental plan.

Acoustic research, permit applications, and consultancy are usually carried out by environmental services and acoustic consultancy firms. These results provide dB Noise Control with an important foundation to design and implement effective noise control measures.

Our solutions

At dB Noise Control, we offer a wide range of custom solutions for utility and industrial construction. This includes the acoustic optimisation of technical rooms, sound insulating solutions such as doors, sound-dampening grilles and ventilation units, and sound insulating walls, enclosures, and cabins for various applications. With our extensive knowledge and experience in the field of sound and vibrations, we develop a tailored solution for every situation. We combine innovation, economic feasibility, and the latest techniques to guarantee the best results.

Our customers

• Contractors in utility and industrial construction, for projects such as theatres, cinemas, water pumping stations, and multifunctional centres.
• Installers of, among other things, chillers, condenser units, wastewater treatment plants, and air handling equipment.
• Companies in infrastructure