Acoustics and noise are top complaints for quality of life and the workplace; whereas good acoustic design can improve wellbeing and productivity. This seminar explores current trends in building design and what can go wrong when the acoustic environment is not considered in the design stage. Key concepts and factors of influence will be described, including airborne and impact (‘footfall’) sound transmission, reverberation, speech intelligibility and speech privacy. In Canada, building code requirements for sound control have until now been based on direct sound transmission through wall or floor elements. New requirements in the National Building Code introduce a more comprehensive approach, which also considers flanking sound transmission via indirect paths. This change in approach will be reviewed, along with examples to demonstrate how the new requirements can be fulfilled. The seminar will conclude with a discussion of further building code changes related to sound control that could be introduced in the future.
 
Alan Oldfield has a passion for architecture and interiors, but what resonates most to him in building and landscape design is the sound, not the look. Alan is a Senior Acoustic Engineer and Project Manager at AECOM and is a specialist in architectural acoustics and building engineering noise control. He studied Mechanical Engineering at Imperial College London, UK, and the University of Melbourne, Australia, where he completed his Master of Engineering degree. He has been an Acoustic Engineer at AECOM for 11 years, including over 5 years in the UK. Alan is a registered Chartered Engineer in the UK and Professional Engineer in Ontario. His work ranges from construction noise and vibration impact studies for infrastructure projects to architectural acoustic design for institutions and venues.  Alan has previously delivered presentations for IIDEX in Canada, the Institute of Acoustics in London, England, and the Acoustical Society of America, as well as for architects and design practices across North America.

Free for TSA members
$20 for non-members
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This seminar is eligible for 2 OAA structured Con Ed hours.