BB93 regulations were introduced in 2003 to provide a regulatory framework to allow schools to be designed to meet necessary acoustic requirements.

BB93 has significantly tightened the acoustic design of schools as we now recognise that teaching and learning are affected by the acoustic performance of the classroom. The most serious problem is noise transmission between rooms and excessive reverberation times within a classroom.

The aim of BB93 is to provide acoustic conditions in schools that facilitate clear communication of speech between teacher and student. To achieve this there are a number of considerations such as airborne sound insulation between spaces, sound absorption in corridors, impact sound insulation of floors, entrance hallways and stairwells, and reverberation in teaching and study spaces.

Airborne sound insulation between adjacent spaces varies depending on the noise levels generated within specific rooms. An example of this would be a music classroom next to a general teaching area. Music classrooms have very high activity levels whereas general teaching areas have a low tolerance. Tables 1.1 and 1.2 of BB93 can be used to determine the airborne sound insulation required. Corridors and circulation spaces must also be considered. Further information can be found in table 1.3 of BB93.

In order to reduce the transmission of foot traffic between spaces via the floor, separating floors must be designed to attenuate impact sound. This varies depending on the type of room as highlighted in table 1.4 of BB93.

Reverberation in teaching and study spaces must be considered during construction to facilitate clear communication between teacher and student. Table 1.5 of BB93 shows the reverberation times for specific teaching spaces. Absorption products such as fabric panels and acoustic baffles can be used to reduce reverberation times. Absorption must also be considered within corridors, entrance halls and stairwells to ensure interference with study in adjacent rooms is kept to a minimum.

JCW Group can assist with all of the above whether you require acoustic absorption products, sound insulation products or the supply and installation of an acoustic floor.