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Acoustics

SM&W’s Acoustical consulting services address a variety of acoustical, noise, and vibration issues and can provide designs to optimize the acoustics of spaces. Some include:

Architectural Acoustics

SM&W works closely with the project design team to establish design goals and schemes for acoustical separation (vertical, horizontal and impact isolation) as well as, interior acoustics in terms of shapes and finishes of spaces. Effective and economical solutions for acoustical issues are achieved through common building materials and details.

Mechanical Noise & Vibration Control

SM&W is experienced in preparing practical design assessment based on a thorough noise and vibration analysis. We have contributed to the success of a variety of types of projects, from single pieces of equipment to expansive central building systems. SM&W offers innovative and cost-effective methods of achieving suitable background noise levels.

Structural Dynamics

Dynamic movement within floor slabs is an issue in many buildings, especially laboratory and research facilities due to activities in the building (footfall, material handling, equipment, rhythmic dancing, etc.) in close proximity to sensitive equipment. SM&W works closely with the design team to establish criteria and goals, assisting the Structural Engineer in designing the appropriate structural systems and details.

Performing Arts Acoustics

Acoustics and noise control are paramount within performing arts. SM&W’s acoustic specialists can take a pragmatic approach to a simple and unobtrusive acoustical design or can lead the design team in developing unique designs and discrete acoustical environments.

Community & Industrial Noise Control

SM&W has vast experience conducting environmental noise studies. These studies consist of quantifying the impact on the community from noise sources such as large cooling plants, health care facilities, high-speed mail handling machinery, recycling facilities, metal stamping factories, and mass transit systems. SM&W can conduct surveys of noise and vibration characteristics from various types of machinery, with which we can establish decibel maps or contours around major sources of noise generation. This data can be used for determining compliance with OSHA regulations for employee hearing loss and damage. In most cases, this type of study involves noise control for nearby communities or to comply with noise codes along property lines.

Open Plan Offices

Open plan offices are an efficient way to provide workspace for the maximum amount of employees; however, these environments offer no privacy. SM&W advises users and architects to help offset the factors affecting this such as the type of ceiling, workstation screens, carpet, wall finishes, lighting, air diffusers, and sound masking. Our contributions to the design will help achieve the maximum level of speech privacy and minimum amount of distractions, while keeping the open layout.