Buildings B

3.2.2(h)Asbestos and Noise (continues)Noise from ventilating or pumping systemVentilating and pumping systems are common noise sources in a buildingthat cause nuisances to the occupiers.The building management shouldput in place a regularly scheduledequipment maintenance programso that the building servicesequipment or installations in thebuilding are properly maintainedand serviced without generatingexcessive noise or vibration.When the building management observes abnormal or excessive noisefrom ventilating or pumping systems, it should immediately identify the sourceand the cause for appropriate remedial measures.The building management should realize that it is likely for a normallyoperated powerful ventilation fan or high capacity condenser to generateirritating noise. In such circumstances, additional noise abatement measuressuch as acoustic panels, enclosures, silencers or acoustic louvers shouldbe installed as appropriate to reduce the noise.Although water pumps are mostly placed inside plant rooms housed inpump chambers, vibration of the pumps usually transmits through themountings to sensitive parts of the building such as domestic flats orclassrooms.The building management should ensure that the pumps and the waterpipes are isolated from the plant room structures by the use of springs orrubber isolators. Pipes penetrating the floor slabs or walls should be isolatedby shock-absorbing materials such as rubber sleeve or glass-fibre packing.When alteration or replacement of a ventilating or pumping system isrequired, noise level of pumps or moving parts should be of equal bearingas their performance. Noisy systems should be located away from sensitiveuses wherever possible or suitably screened or insulated.UNDERSTANDING BUILDINGMAINTENANCE & MANAGEMENT