Traffic noise

Our society needs fast, efficient and secure transport of people and goods. The increasing traffic will cause even more noise if we don't take it into account in the city planning.

Requirements on traffic noise

In most countries there are national restrictions on traffic noise, typically when planning new roads and railways through residential and recreational areas. However, no such restrictions are known for existing roads and railways and the increasing traffic-flow has raised the noise impact on the people living nearby.

3D model of noise

DELTA can construct a 3D model of roads, railways and other sources of noise. We predict the noise impact on the surroundings before the construction work is started. We can show the consequences of alternative solutions before the final decision is taken.

Noise action plans

DELTA calculates and measures traffic noise and our consultancy includes action plans for traffic noise. Our customers include building owners, advisors and authorities and they typically involve us in:

• Planning and approval of noise requirements of new residential areas
• Extensions and new developments along existing roads and railways
• Complaints about traffic noise

• Noise action plans for traffic

We know what we are talking about

DELTA has 40 years' experience in acoustics, noise and vibration. DELTA's accreditations cover the measurement, calculation and reporting on traffic noise. This means that our reports can form part of the authorities' administrative procedures in connection with approvals, planning, etc. Throughout the years, DELTA has been measuring and calculating noise and thus has great knowledge of effective means of noise reduction measures.

Mapping traffic noise

The figure shows a noise map of a small urban area. When building a new by-pass, the local authorities wanted to ensure that the noise was not increased for the individual properties. At the same time, the noise impact at each property was to be established before and after the reconstruction work.
 
Based on topographical maps, DELTA constructed a 3D model of the area, on which each building was placed with the correct building heights. Traffic data for all significant roads was added into the model and the noise calculated in a finely-meshed net of points within the area. The results are presented as coloured noise zones, each representing an interval in the noise impact in dB. It provides a general overview!