What is this standard about?
BS 8233 provides guidance for the control of noise in and around buildings. These guidelines help define what is considered to be acceptable in different environments.
Who is this standard for?
- Regulatory and planning authorities
- Architects and developers
- Acoustic and environmental consultants
- Relevant governmental and non-governmental agencies
- Manufacturers of related products
Why should you use this standard?
BS 8233 draws on the results of research and experience to provide information on the design of buildings that have internal acoustic environments appropriate to their functions. It deals with control of noise from outside the building, noise from plant and services within it, and room acoustics for non-critical situations.
In the absence of the guidance documents and statements about the Planning Policy Framework which used to be issued by the government, this standard is the only comprehensive source of information which both constructors and planners can use to guide their decision-making.
It applies to the design of new buildings, or refurbished buildings undergoing a change of use, but does not provide guidance on assessing the effects of changes in the external noise levels to occupants of an existing building.
What’s changed since the last update?
This is a full revision of the standard. The main changes have been made to reflect:
- Changes to the legislative framework since publication of the 1999 edition
- Revisions to Building Regulations Approved Document E
- The publication of specialist documents for specific sectors, such as healthcare and education