Construction and Demolition
This sector often requires the outdoor use of machinery resulting in large amounts of noise and vibration. This will have impact upon the environment and neighbourhoods. Current British Standard BS5228 applies to these situations.

Noise At Work
The HSE has stated that over 4 million people are affected by damaging noise at work. The frequency and level of compensation claims has never been higher. Control of noise at work regulations 2005 are introduced to control exposure of employees to nose. The consequences of non-compliance can be very costly.

Vibration At Work
With the new Control of Vibration at Work regulations 2005, the amount of time employees can expose workforce to vibration needs to be controlled to avoid prosecution and compensation claims. HSE estimates 5 million people currently use vibrating machinery.

Nuisance Noise
The bulk of complaints to Environmental Health often relates to noise issues. Since 2004 local authorities have powers to issue fixed penalties through the Noise act. BS4141 legislation is another area of concern with regard to areas of mixed residential and industrial properties.

Building Acoustics
Legislation (Document E) is a major concern to all architects and property developers as it is designed to protect against sound from and within buildings. This forms an essential part in compliance with building regulations.

Environment Impact Assessment/Survey
Certain types of projects follow legislation (PPG 24/MPG 11) to assess potential environmental effects in order to achieve development consent.