Meeting stringent government requirements is one of the most important factors within the infrastructure development and construction industry. Impact-resistant walls play a significant role within the industry, including mitigating noise pollution from highways and enhancing safety in high-traffic areas. Because of their importance, impact-resistant walls are required to meet several standards. In this article, we will explore the details of those requirements as well as other important considerations.
Ensuring structural integrity
One of the primary reasons for the stringent guidelines that have been placed on noise wall erection is that they ensure all noise walls are effectively installed and will be structurally secure. A key characteristic of commercial impact-resistant walls is their ability to withstand the force of impact, whether from vehicular collisions, harsh weather and natural disasters, or other unforeseen events. Because of this, government regulations mandate specific standards for impact resistance, requiring rigorous testing and certification to ensure the structural integrity of these walls.
These standards include –
- All ISO standards pertaining to noise walls,
- Australian Standard – AS 5100:2017
- The Department of Transport and Planning Standard Specifications and Bridge Technical Note BTN 007
- Section 765 of the DTP Noise Attenuation Walls guideline
For more information, refer to the department of Transport and Planning Guidelines regarding noise attenuation walls. This document covers –
- All requirements for the supply of materials of noise attenuation wall (noise wall) panels which are manufactured from concrete, steel, and composite.
- All requirements for the erection of any type of noise wall
Noise mitigation
In addition to being manufactured and installed to meet government requirements, the standards exist to ensure that impact-resistant noise walls are genuinely effective. Commercial impact-resistant walls must also adhere to strict guidelines regarding noise attenuation. In urban environments and industrial settings, noise pollution can be a significant issue, affecting the well-being of nearby residents and workers. Government agencies set limits on acceptable noise levels, particularly in areas adjacent to highways, railways, and industrial facilities.
Highway traffic noise typically registers between 70 to 80 dB when measured at a distance of 15 metres from the road. However, this measurement can fluctuate depending on factors such as the types of vehicles on the highway, the proximity of homes to the highway, local terrain, and the presence of noise barriers along the road.
According to the World Health Organization, it is strongly advised that road traffic noise levels should be below 53 dB. This is based on numerous studies that have demonstrated how prolonged exposure to traffic noise can have detrimental effects on both our physical and mental well-being.
Promoting environmental sustainability
Another critical aspect of meeting government requirements for commercial impact-resistant walls is environmental sustainability. As the government prioritises more sustainability in commercial initiatives, developers and contractors are increasingly tasked with incorporating eco-friendly materials and construction practices into their projects.
In addition, the installation process is required to adhere to guidelines and regulations, ensuring that the surrounding environment is not negatively affected by the construction and installation process. The type of noise wall is also subject to these guidelines, where specific wall types may be recommended due to soil type, as well as the aesthetics of the surrounding environment.
The DTP Guidelines on Noise Attenuation Walls details all requirements for the installation of noise walls, regarding the surrounding environment and the impact the wall and its installation process will have on it.
Comprehensive documentation and reporting
Finally, compliance with government regulations for commercial impact-resistant walls entails comprehensive documentation and reporting of the process and all decisions made within it. Developers and contractors must maintain detailed records of materials used, testing procedures conducted, and certification obtained to demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements.
Regulatory assistance
To navigate the complexities of meeting stringent government requirements, developers and contractors should always rely on trusted partners with expertise in noise wall construction and regulatory compliance. These experts bring specialised knowledge and experience to the table, and will be able to guide clients through the regulatory landscape, offering accurate and informed solutions to meet project-specific needs.
Partnering with professionals
Meeting stringent government requirements for commercial impact-resistant walls is a multifaceted endeavour that demands careful planning, precise execution, and years of experience. From withstanding physical impact to mitigating noise pollution and promoting environmental sustainability, noise walls play a crucial role in enhancing the built environment and safeguarding public welfare.
Ensuring compliance with government standards while meeting the diverse needs of commercial projects presents a unique set of challenges for developers and contractors alike. Partnering with experienced professionals can provide the expertise and support needed to achieve compliance and deliver exceptional results.
Wallmark is a leading provider of noise wall solutions, offering years of expertise in designing and constructing commercial impact-resistant walls that meet the most stringent government requirements. With a proven track record of delivering high-quality commercial projects ranging from residential to major commercial endeavours with VicRoads, Wallmark is dedicated to excellence in safety, performance, and environmental responsibility. Contact a member of our team and trust us to help you confidently navigate the complexities of your next noise wall project.
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