Acoustic Maps

A acoustic map is a tool that plays a crucial role in spatial planning and environmental protection. It serves to visualize noise levels in a given area, enabling the identification of zones exposed to excessive noise risk. In this article, we will look at what exactly a acoustic map is, what responsibilities are associated with its creation, what is included in it, what measurements are necessary, and who is responsible for its production.

What is a acoustic map?

A acoustic map is a graphical representation of noise levels in a specific area, showing how noise spreads and affects the environment. It is a tool mainly used by urban planners, decision-makers, and environmental specialists to assess areas prone to high noise levels and plan appropriate noise reduction actions. These maps are created based on precise acoustic measurements at various locations and times, allowing for the identification of noise sources such as road traffic, railway lines, or industry.

On the acoustic map, various decibel levels (dB) can be marked, which define the intensity of acoustic, and it can also determine what actions can be taken to minimize its impact on residents and the environment. These maps are often updated and serve as the basis for creating strategic noise protection plans as part of environmental policy.

According to the amendment of the law from 2019, those creating acoustic maps must now apply assessment methods specified in the Commission Directive (EU) 2015/996. This means a more uniform approach to noise measurement, which should lead to a more accurate assessment of its impact on the environment and public health.

The amendment also introduces more detailed definitions of acoustic indicators that are to be measured according to ISO standards during specific nighttime hours. This makes the regulations more precise, allowing for better adaptation of noise protection measures

An important element of the changes is the introduction of an obligation to create strategic acoustic maps for managers of main roads, railway lines, and airports. These maps aim not only to assess but also to manage acoustic on a larger scale, with action plans aimed at reducing noise where it exceeds permissible norms. Thanks to the strategies contained in these maps, more effective infrastructural and environmental planning is possible, which has a direct impact on improving the quality of life for residents.

Strategic acoustic maps also enable better coordination between different administrative units and environmental protection organizations. By integrating data from acoustic maps into decision-making and planning processes, local authorities can effectively introduce noise regulations, such as noise-limited zones, quiet hours, or acoustic insulation requirements for new buildings.

The implementation of such solutions allows for the creation of a more balanced and healthy living environment, minimizing the negative impact of acoustic on health and the well-being of the community. Long-term benefits from such actions include a reduction in stress-related illnesses, improved sleep quality for residents, and increased overall attractiveness of the area as a place to live and work. In this way, strategic acoustic maps become a key tool in modern environmental management, supporting the development of sustainable and healthy cities of the future.

Obligation to produce a acoustic map

The obligation to produce a noise map primarily stems from the need to protect residents from excessive noise, which can negatively impact health and quality of life. In many countries, including the European Union, there are specific regulations that govern when and how noise maps must be created.

In the European Union, Directive 2002/49/EC establishes the framework for assessing and managing environmental noise. It obligates member states to prepare and publish noise maps for large agglomerations, major roads, railway transport routes, and airports. These maps must be updated every five years. The purpose of this requirement is to enable public authorities to identify areas where acoustic levels exceed established norms and then develop action plans aimed at reducing noise to acceptable levels. These plans often include both short-term and long-term strategies, which may involve technical actions (e.g., the construction of sound barriers) as well as organizational measures (e.g., changing traffic organization).

Typically, the responsibility for preparing acoustic maps rests with local and regional authorities, who may contract measurement and analysis tasks to companies specializing in environmental acoustics.

What does a noise map include?

Creating a acoustic map for a large city by the new Regulation of the Minister of Climate and Environment dated July 1, 2021, a range of detailed information and requirements must be considered:

Geographic scope and noise sources:

• All public roads, railway and tram lines, airports, and ports within the city limits.
• Industrial operations, large commercial facilities, and parking lots with over 300 parking spaces.
• Ports serving ships with a capacity of at least 1350 tons.

Descriptive part of the map:

• Exact details of the entity creating the map, characteristics of the terrain, acoustic sources, and technical parameters, such as airport parameters and the aircraft fleet.
• Lists of industrial plants along with their impact on noise levels in the city.

Technical data and methodology:

• Permissible noise levels for different areas.
• Measurement methods used to develop the map and detailed results of these measurements.
• Calibration of the computational model used to predict acoustic propagation.

Analysis and conclusions:

• Identification of areas at risk of noise norm exceedances and the number of people exposed to acoustic.
• Analysis of the directions of changes in the acoustic state of the environment and the results of noise distribution analyses.

Proposed protective actions:

• Proposed measures aimed at acoustic protection and the estimated effect of these actions.

Summary for non-specialists:

• A summary of the descriptive part in non-technical language, which will facilitate the understanding of the map for people who do not deal with acoustic issues on a daily basis.

Adherence to these guidelines is crucial not only for meeting legal requirements but also for effectively protecting residents from the negative impact of acoustic on their health and well-being. A acoustic map, developed according to these principles, becomes a valuable tool in urban planning and environmental management of the city.

What measurements are necessary for a acoustic map?

To create a acoustic map, it is necessary to conduct a series of detailed acoustic measurements that enable an accurate analysis of noise levels in a given area. Here are the main types of measurements typically performed:

• Sound level measurements: These are basic measurements that determine the acoustic level in decibels (dB). They are conducted in various locations and times to obtain a representative picture of the noise under different conditions.
• Long-term measurements: These measurements are conducted over an extended period (e.g., several days or weeks), allowing for an analysis of noise variability over time and identification of periods with elevated acoustic levels.
• Spectral measurements: These allow for the analysis of the noise’s frequency composition, which is particularly important when identifying specific noise sources, such as noise from machinery or vehicles.
• Meteorological condition measurements: Weather conditions can affect sound propagation, so it is important to perform measurements under various atmospheric conditions.
• Background noise analysis: These measurements help distinguish background noise (the constant noise level in the environment) from noise generated by specific sources, which is crucial for accurate assessment of the impact of new noise sources.
• Acoustic modeling: Involves creating computer models that use data from measurements to predict how noise will spread under different environmental conditions and what its long-term effects will be.

These measurements are usually performed by specialists in acoustics using advanced measuring equipment, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the results. The results of these measurements are then used to develop a acoustic map, which forms the basis for planning protective actions and managing noise in the area.”

How to make a acoustic map?

Creating a acoustic map is a complex task that requires specialized knowledge and experience. Therefore, the best solution is to entrust this task to a professional company specializing in environmental acoustics. KFB Acoustic is equipped with the appropriate measuring equipment and experts in sound engineering, which ensures the accuracy and reliability of the results. Collaborating with us allows for a comprehensive approach to the process of creating acoustic maps, from the planning phase through the execution of measurements, data analysis, to the final development of the map and recommendations for reduction measures.