Acoustic Shock
Acoustic Shock is entirely distinct from conventional Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) which is generally caused by prolonged or repeated exposure over a significant period of time (usually years). It is often confused with Acoustic Trauma which is also a form of conventional hearing loss, usually produced by loud impulses, but without necessarily a "shock" value. Conventional NIHL is covered by the Control of Noise at Work Regulations.
Acoustic Shock is very different. The "shock" element is as important as the noise level of the incident and it is the unexpected nature of it that is largely responsible for the adverse effects. Cases often rely on a lot of other evidence as the sudden nature of the incident can rarely be replicated for analysis.
Acoustic Shock is traditionally referred to as a call centre phenomenon through headsets, and often described as short duration, with a rapid attack/rise time (ie. sudden), usually high frequency and always unexpected. In call centres it is often referred to as “feedback”, mainly due to the shrieking nature of the sound, rather than the actual source. However, despite being primarily associated with the call centre headsets, there is no reason why the causes of Acoustic Shock should not occur in many other settings.
There is no consistent threshold of noise that can trigger Acoustic Shock, but evidence suggests levels of 82 to 120 dB at the eardrum. These are not particularly high levels of noise (the ear canal has an amplifying effect so, very roughly, 82 to 120 dB at the eardrum would be around 72 to 110 outside the ear). The point is the suddenness of the sound and the “shock” reaction it can produce.
CLIENTS FEEDBACK
Testimonials
"I've worked with lots of acoustic consultants over the years and you guys are easily the best"
Burlow Engineering, Bury
"ADC are an efficient, cost effective acoustic consultancy. They always offer solutions rather than presenting problems. I am always happy to recommend them to my clients"
RGP Architects, Manchester
"ADC's report is excellent. No more comments from me"
Maghull Group,
"The reason we won the case was in no small part down to your efforts. Your proof of evidence was outstandingly the best and your performance on the stand was impeccable"
Planning and Law,
"Thanks a million for this work, it's excellent. I think we will make your trip to Dublin an annual event as I like your approach and your practical solutions"
Unilever Foods, Dublin
"Thank you Mr Raymond. Next time I need a great noise expert for a licensing hearing, I'll certainly recommend you to my instructing solicitor"
Barrister,
"Thanks for the noise control seminar, it was really enjoyable and as you can tell by the questions asked, everyone learnt so much from it"
Centrica Business Solutions,
"Many thanks again for your expert assistance with our case. You came across as knowledgeable, honest and fair - unlike your opposite number!"
West Lancashire Borough Council,
"I have worked with Andrew Raymond as an expert on noise issues in connection with planning inquiry work. His work and the presentation of his evidence is always of a high quality. He responds very quickly. Above all he always takes a pragmatic and commercial approach to solutions, and this is very much appreciated by clients."
Cobbetts Solicitors,
"I think we've made a breakthrough with thanks to you! You seemed to have swayed opinion Environmental Health Dept! I am so grateful for your time and effort on our behalf. This has all been a bit trying and you were like a ray of sunshine on the proceedings!"
Private Developer,
"Philip gave the best presentation I have seen, or to be more accurate heard, in a long time. He gives you a remarkable and wholly practical demonstration of the effects of good, and bad, sound insulation in buildings.”
Poole Dick Associates,
"Professional, knowledgeable and cooperative – fellow consultants ADC Acoustics have been a pleasure to work with and are an asset to any design team, providing a comprehensive service with the expertise to solve even the most complex of acoustic related issues"
Brewster Bye Architects, Leeds
"I run a commercial planning law practice, and I act for commercial clients. These clients expect their interests to be represented in an efficient and practical manner, and when I have acoustic issues to deal with I have no hesitancy in recommending ADC acoustics. I find that I can discuss issues with that practice and that I receive accurate and practical advice in return. Perhaps most importantly I find that I am listened to and that the practice responds to my requirements."
,
"The acoustic insulation is so good you cannot hear anything outside at all even with the music on at full level. Thanks so much for everything to date. Pop in anytime for that extra large drink!!!"
Nightclub, North Wales
"When we get an acoustic report from you, we always know it's going to be good. And that's not something we say very often"
Senior Environmental Health Officer,
"Just a quick hello and a big thank you for your patience and concerted efforts in seeing this project through to its conclusion.
You have been wonderful through this journey, have made yourselves available when we haver needed your expertise, and are very appreciative for your effort … thanks very much!"
Romal Capital,
Having commissioned ADC Acoustics to carry out a building assessment for our enrichment service, which provides services for young adults with disability, I can confidently say that Phil understood the needs of our service and how we require the acoustics to perform. He gave a very clear and simple understanding of how acoustic properties work in buildings, and the measures required to achieve the desired noise levels. Very professional and friendly service, highly recommended.