BCSE Acoustics Advisory Group - BB93 Review
An Acoustics Advisory Group led by the BCSE met in Manchester earlier this year to discuss input for the BB93 Review. Those in attendance were members of the British Council for School Environments who have knowledge of acoustics in learning environments. The key points raised at this meeting will inform our future position on acoustics as an organisation.
Click on link for the 10 key issues which have been put forward to the review panel:
1.0 Briefing
A strong and comprehensive brief to define acoustic requirements needs to be developed, by specialists, as early on in the process as possible.
2.0 Educational Models
A strong education model is essential and should be developed at the outset to inform and drive the whole design, including acoustics.
3.0 Standards
The need for standards is important to ensure that design is effective. However, the standards need to be clear and real life performance of spaces considered.
4.0 Alternative Performance Standards (APS)
As the standards are a minimum requirement there should not be derogations. Only realistic alternative performance standards should be specified based upon the functionality of the space.
5.0 Ventilation
The ventilation and acoustic strategy need to be developed together to create an effective environment founded in evidence-based design.
6.0 Refurbishment
A refurbished environment must still meet acoustic standards which can be difficult to achieve.
7.0 Risk Management
Risk management is often the driver of acoustic performance, rather than the development of an effective school environment for learning.
8.0 Funding
Money must be spent effectively so that the building is designed with effective acoustics.
9.0 Testing
The testing of acoustic performance should be sensible and reflect the real impact of design on acoustic performance and teaching and learning.
10.0 Post-occupancy Evaluation
To ensure that there is a complete understanding of acoustic performance on teaching and learning post-occupancy evaluation is essential.
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