Institute of Acoustics Certificate of Competence in Environmental Noise Measurement

Program Overview

This accredited course by the Institute of Acoustics provides a comprehensive overview of environmental noise measurement. It covers basic concepts, instrumentation, assessment methodologies, and practical measurement techniques through hands-on exercises. The program culminates in written and practical exams leading to potential technical membership in the Institute of Acoustics.

Program Outline

Outline:

This course is divided into five key areas:

• Basic Concepts of Environmental Noise: This module provides an overview of the basic definitions and principles of sound, noise indices, and units, and the basic calculations involving decibels and noise indices.
• Instrumentation for Environmental Noise Measurement: This module covers the basic features and properties of an integrating sound level meter.
It also considers the importance of both field and laboratory calibration requirements.
• Noise Indices and Measurement Methodologies for Environmental Noise Measurement: This module reviews noise assessment methods and standards, including the new guidance documents on noise in relation to planning applications, BS4142, CRTN, and BS5228.
The focus here is very much on measurement methodology and less so on the legislative requirements.
• Environmental Noise Measurement in Practice: This module encourages students to focus on the principles and good practice of noise measurement in the field, including those stipulated in BS7445.
Students will also consider the limitations of noise measurement through the application of practical case studies and uncertainty. There will be plenty of opportunities to practise skills outdoors.

Assessment:

• Practical exam on the Friday of the course.
• Written exam held on a Friday about two weeks after the course.

Teaching:

• The course will start on a Monday and will take five full-time days to complete.
• This is a hands-on course that will develop skills in undertaking noise measurements and interpreting the results.
• The course is taught by Mark Dring, a lecturer on the Sound, Light and Live Event Technology Degree and also on the IOA Diploma in Acoustics and Noise Control.

Careers:

• The next step could be the IOA diploma in Acoustics.
• Gaining this qualification could enhance career prospects as it will set you apart from peers.

Other:

• This course is accredited by the Institute of Acoustics.
• Successful completion of the course can lead to technical membership of the Institute of Acoustics.