Tips & Tricks Archives | Campbell Associates

Invisible threats: understanding PM2.5 and PM10 in your indoor air

Air Quality & Dust

What is an airborne partiuclate?

An airborne particulate, also known as particulate matter (PM), is a microscopic solid or liquid particle that remains suspended in the air. These particles are incredibly diverse in size, shape, and chemical composition, originating from both natural sources like dust and pollen, and human activities such as combustion and industrial processes. Categorized by their aerodynamic diameter, particularly as PM10 (coarse particles) and PM2.5 (fine particles), these tiny airborne components can persist in the atmosphere for varying durations depending on their size, and their presence is a key factor in air quality assessments due to their potential impacts on human health and the environment.

What is the legislation for England?

The HSE have set exposure standards to comply with the requirements of The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations. These are described in the HSE document EH40, which is updated annually. Currently, these are:

  • 10,000 ug/m3 (8 hour time weighted average) for total inhalable dust.
  • 4,000 ug/m3 (8 hour time weighted average) for respirable dust.

Total inhalable dust is defined as the fraction of airborne dust which enters the nose and mouth during breathing and is therefore available for deposition in the respiratory tract. Respirable dust approximates to the proportion which penetrates to the alveoli within the lung.

European emissions standards have highlighted a yearly average of 40 μg/m³ and 25 μg/m³ for PM10 and PM2.5 respectively. The ‘WHO’ standards outline a guideline of 20 μg/m³ and 10 μg/m³ for PM10 and PM2.5 respectively.

Can they be monitored?

Yes! Absolutely. Our monitors provide reliable, high-quality data on particulate concentrations, enabling local authorities, construction sites, and environmental consultants to effectively assess air quality, identify pollution sources, and demonstrate compliance with the stringent standards set to protect public health across the United Kingdom.

CadnaB Overview

Noise

Datakustik Cadna

Calculation Standards

The following standards are implemented in CadnaB:

  • ISO 12354: Calculation of airborne and impact sound insulation between rooms as well as the airborne sound insulation against outdoor sound via the façade walls.
  • When using ISO 12354, following parameters can be calculated:
    • Performance parameters according to ISO 717-1 (airborne sound insulation) and ISO 717-2 (impact sound insulation)
    • ASTM-parameters (STC, OITC, IIC)
  • DIN 4109: Calculation of airborne and impact sound insulation between rooms as well as the airborne sound insulation against outdoor sound via the façade walls.

Handling and Modelling

CadnaB´s concept is based on the modelling of the whole building. Walls, doors, windows and other elements can be modelled in 2D while seeing the changes in 3D in realtime:

  • Numerous junction types are automatically detected by CadnaB depending on the geometry of the walls and the selected constructions.
  • In addition to the geometry of the walls and the assigned constructions, doors and  windows can be inserted with a few clicks. The construction of these elements is also selected via the construction browser.
  • Furthermore, airborne sound transmitting systems can be added.
  • Complete buildings can be imported, created from scratch or constructed by copying storeys.

Import of Bitmap floor plans

CadnaB supports the import of bitmap files, e.g. containing the floor map. Bitmaps can be comfortably calibrated within CadnaB. Afterwards, entire storeys with multiple rooms or even entire buildings can be easily modelled by drawing the elements on top.

Project Organization

The CadnaB workflow is organised in different modes. Each mode is suited for a certain group of tasks:

  • Project mode: used for entering new objects or modifying exiting objects. In this mode, any type of element can be filtered and displayed.
  • Constructions mode: This mode is used to assign constructions to walls, doors, windows or floors. When an object is opened, the construction browser appears showing all libraries.
  • Results mode: This mode allows to start the calculation, check the results and export a report.
  • Usage mode: In this mode you can assign different types of usage to the rooms within your project.
  • Noise levels: For defining sound levels for rooms or façade walls.

Import of BASTIAN worksheets

CadnaB provides an easy to use import of BASTIAN worksheets. The single room pair can be directly used for calculation (e.g. according to ISO 12354). If the user activates the compatibility mode to ISO 12354, series 2000, comparable results to BASTIAN can be generated.

Import of INSUL files

CadnaB also imports constructions generated by INSUL (Marshall Day Acoustics)*, as XML files. All data including the sketch are imported. For constructions with several parts, such as a slab with a screed, the user can select which one to import. 

*Option PRO required
*Requires exported XML files from INSUL version 9.0.24 or later

Interoperability with CadnaA

CadnaB-buildings can be placed in a CadnaA model with a few clicks to calculate the level in front of the façade. In case of ISO 12354, the interior level can be calculated based on the façade level with consideration of the building acoustic properties. When using DIN 4109, the “relevant exterior noise level” can be calculated and transferred to CadnaB.

Interoperability with CadnaR

  • Manage and organize CadnaR files for an entire building in CadnaB.
  • Use CadnaR in the sending and receiving room to consider the position of sources, receivers and obstacles inside the room. The transmission through the wall is calculated based on the building acoustic properties defined in CadnaB including selected constructions, doors or windows.
  • Automatic calculation of the spatially averaged reverberation time for all rooms which are linked to a CadnaR project.

The “Results” mode

The results mode allows you to check all calculated results, which are organized for every two adjacent rooms. This makes the fast-checking of any specific room pair within a building very intuitive.

  • Airborne and impact sound transmission results (single and 1/3 octave bands)
  • Partial results for separating element and flanks (single and 1/3 octave bands)
  • Information about junctions
  • Interior level results

The result types shown depend on the selected standard, the evaluation parameters and the transmission situation.

Auralization*

In CadnaB, the result of the calculation can be made audible with the help of binaural auralization. This allows the user to imagine the effect of a construc­tional measure. For this purpose, a source in the form of an audio file is sim­ulated in the sending room or in front of the facade, which is then reduced by the calculated sound reduction index.

*Option PRO required

Fulfillment of requirements

In addition to the numerical results, CadnaB allows the inclusion of requirements according to national or local standards. Many predefined requirements are available within the requirements browser. You can then check whether any room pair fulfills the requirement or not by means of comprehensive visual icons.

Export of results

CadnaB can export:

  • Full project reports to MS Word format (.docx).
  • List of constructions into MS Word (.docx)
  • Calculation protocol to MS Excel (.xlsx)
  • Object tables to text format (.csv)

Overview of CadnaA Industry

Noise

CadnaA Industry is especially designed for acousticians specialized in industrial installations. Applications range from the calculation of industrial sites, wind farms or mining plants to HVACs, PAGA systems or even open air events. In addition to the extensive functions for modelling, assessment and presentation of CadnaA, the product CadnaA Industry includes the following industry-specific features:

  • All calculation standards for noise type Industry included.
  • Input of sources as point, line or area with many options to define emission such as corrections, directivity, operating time and many more.
  • Easy import of emission data as .txt or .xlsx file, for example as sound power level (Lw) or indoor sound level (Li). The data is stored in a database and can be shared across multiple projects or users.
  • Extensive possibilities for project organization with the Object Tree. This enables the assessment of complex scenarios to determine relevant sources or source groups.
  • Definition of a 2D, 3D or rotationally symmetrical directivity, which is especially relevant for the calculation of loudspeakers used for PAGA systems or open air events.
  • Calculation of 1/3 octave band width (if supported by calculation standard).
  • Calculation of maximum levels for each receiver.
  • Convenient functions such as a calculator to add or subtract A/B/C/D weighting to an existing spectrum or to convert a 1/1 octave band spectrum to 1/3 (and vice versa).

Overview of CadnaR for industry acoustics

Noise

CadnaR provides powerful tools to efficiently manage any scenario, guiding you through the setup of your acoustic model and the assignment of appropriate absorption, scattering, and transmission properties. 

Whether optimizing an open-space office for a productive work environment or ensuring excellent speech intelligibility in a lecture hall, CadnaR enables you to assess acoustic quality using industry standards and advanced evaluation methods.

Key features of CadnaR include:

  • Cutting-edge calculation methods: particle model, image source model, hybrid model and more. Fast calculation times thanks to innovative technologies such the support of NVIDIA’s CUDA API.
  • Import and input of obstacle objects including barriers, box-type obstacles and polymeshes to allow any kind of complex room shape. Easy definition of the acoustic properties such as absorption, transmission and scattering.
  • Easy import of room geometries via DWG, DXF, SketchUp, IFC and from CadnaR.scan App.
  • Import your speakers in CadnaR, find their optimal position and alignment, calculate reverberation time, signal level, background noise levels and speech transmission index STI to ensure that these messages are intelligible in large public rooms.
  • Automatic calibration of absorption and scattering coefficients to achieve user-defined or measured target reverberation times.
  • Acoustic assessment of open-plan offices based on speech levels and reverberation time according to DIN 18041, ISO 3382-3 and VDI 2569 as well as innovative intelligibility-based approaches such as the STI-Matrix.
  • Extensive possibilities for project organization with the Object Tree and the use of variants. This allows to handle and compare different planning scenarios and therefore allows to find a tailored acoustic concept to improve the situation in your specific project.
  • Calculation of psychoacoustic parameters such reverberation time (T10, T20, T30), Speech Transmission Index (STI) and many more. Cutting edge auralisation techniques, including the effect of several sources at each receiver position. 

Important cadnaa google maps interface update

Noise

Datakustik Cadna
  • New Google Maps Interface, based on Microsoft Edge (Chromium) browser.

Note from Campbell Associates regarding Google Maps bitmap imports:

Due to Google’s decision to discontinue API support for older browsers such as Internet Explorer, CadnaA users will experience issues importing bitmaps via Google Maps – this is because CadnaA utilises Internet Explorer internally as a virtual browser to open Google Maps.

Unfortunately, the deprecation of Google’s API is entirely outside of DataKustik’s control but has been resolved with this update.

CadnaA 2021

We have been informed that CadnaA 2021 should continue to support Google Maps imports until mid-August 2022, after which the internal browser will cease to function correctly.

Upgrading to version 2022 is advised ASAP to avoid issues in August.

CadnaA 2020 and prior

Older versions of CadnaA are no longer able to support Google Maps imports due to the above-mentioned API issue.

Upgrading to v2022 is required to continue using the Maps bitmap import feature.

Users with an active maintenance contract will be able to download this update without additional charge and are advised to do so at the earliest opportunity to avoid issues.

If you do not have an active Cadna maintenance contract, please contact Campbell Associates for upgrade pricing.

What is mcerts?

Air Quality & Dust

MCERTS stands for Monitoring Certification Scheme and was created by the Environment Agency to provide a framework of standards anyone can use to monitor things that affect the environment.

MCERTS covers:

  • The standards of performance that your monitoring equipment must meet
  • The level your staff must be qualified to
  • accrediting laboratories and inspecting sites in line with European and International standards

The benefits of this standard:

  • The standard gives you certification of your equipment that is formally recognised in the UK and is accepted internationally.
  • Regulators can be confident that monitoring equipment which meets the standard provides reliable monitoring data.
  • You can be confident that the equipment you use to monitor air pollution has been thoroughly tested and meets standards that are accepted by UK regulators.
  • The standard gives manufacturers an independent approval of the equipment they produce, which will improve their access to international markets and increase their sales in the UK.
  • The standard helps ensure the public are given accurate and reliable information about air quality.

Campbell Associates offer a range of indicative ambient particulate monitors with varying levels of MCERTS.

To find out more about this range of Air Quality monitors or get advice on the best monitor for your application give Campbell Associates a call or email today.

01371 871030 | hotline@campbell-associates.co.uk

A procedure for the assessment of low frequency noise complaints – Salford University Guidance 2009

Noise

Application Note – Norsonic Measurements for A procedure for the assessment of low frequency noise complaints – Salford University Guidance 2009

Make sure your instrument is setup to make a 1/3 octave measurement each second.

Load your measurement into NorReview in the normal way.

Click the level versus time/ frequency display – Lf +Lt

You then see a split display of average levels for each second in top part of the screen and the frequency in the bottom.

Identify the recordings where the complainant has noted the low frequency noise is present. Listen to this recording and make sure it does not include people moving around the properties or transportation noise – The concept of the standard is for investigating mechanical/ industrial type noise sources. If the recording meets this criteria click on it to display the frequencies for this recording. For longer recordings which contain other noises you can highlight part of the recording and just display the frequencies for this.

The numbers are displayed on the right side of the screen – Click the Num Table tab. These can be copied and pasted into Excel. We are only interested in frequencies from 10Hz to 160Hz for this standard.

Table V from the standard:

In the example above the highest 1/3 octave is at 100Hz. The Average value at 100Hz is 49.2dB which is above the limit for the day and the night. Note if the noise under investigation is impulsive and not constant you can apply a 5dB penalty to the measured values.

The next stage of the assessment is to view this frequency over time to see if it has correlation with the complainant’s log/ diary sheet.

The example (from the office) shows repetitive presence of 100Hz tone which correlates with the recordings.

If there is a correlation you may wish to try and find the source of the noise. This is not always easy as low frequency noise is harder to pinpoint and identify. The third octave measurements can help you identify/ locate the source and it is sometimes useful to have the FFT module in your meter which gives a more detailed ‘acoustic fingerprint’ of the noise making it easier to locate sources where the acoustic environment is more complex.

Please contact Campbell Associates support@campbell-associates.co.uk with any questions.

Salford University Low Frequency Guide

How advanced fence line monitoring solutions at industrial sites can enhance community trust

Air Quality & Dust

In the industrial sector, maintaining compliance with environmental regulations and maintaining positive relationships with the surrounding community are essential. One of the most effective

Fenceline monitor

ways to achieve these goals is through robust fenceline (boundary) monitoring systems.

These systems not only help address regulatory requirements and community complaints but also demonstrate a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Our advanced fenceline monitoring solutions offer comprehensive air and noise quality monitoring, cloud-based data reporting, and automated alerts, ensuring that your facility operates transparently and responsibly.

Why Fenceline Monitoring Matters

Fenceline monitoring involves placing sensors along the boundary of an industrial site to continuously measure air and noise quality. This proactive approach helps detect and address potential issues before they become significant problems. Here’s why fenceline monitoring is crucial:

  • Regulatory Compliance: Environmental regulations are stringent, and non-compliance can result in hefty fines and damage to reputations. Fenceline monitoring ensures that your facility meets all required air quality standards, reducing the risk of violations.
  • Community Trust: Nearby communities are often concerned about the impact of industrial activities on their health and environment. Transparent monitoring and reporting help build trust, showing that your facility is committed to minimising its environmental footprint.
  • Complaint Management: Timely and reliable data allows for quick investigation and resolution of air quality and noise complaints from the community, improving relations and reducing conflict.

Features of Our Fenceline Monitoring Solutions

Fenceline noise monitor
  • Comprehensive Air and Noise Quality Monitoring: Our systems are equipped with state-of-the-art sensors that detect a wide range of air pollutants, including VOCs, , NO2, and PM. Additionally, integrated noise monitors capture real-time sound levels, providing a complete picture of environmental conditions.
  • Cloud-Based Data Reporting: Data from all sensors are transmitted to a secure cloud interface, making it easily accessible in real-time. Site managers and environmental health teams can view up-to-date information from anywhere.
  • Automated Reporting: Our cloud platform generates automated reports. This feature simplifies the monitoring and automates the data reviewing process.
  • Instant Alerts: With SMS and email alerts, you are immediately notified if pollutant levels or noise exceed predefined thresholds. This prompt notification system allows for swift action to mitigate any issues.

In an age where environmental responsibility is not just preferred but expected, investing in advanced fenceline monitoring systems is a smart choice for any industrial facility. Our comprehensive monitoring solutions provide accurate, real-time data on air and noise quality, ensuring regulatory compliance, addressing community complaints, and enhancing overall operational efficiency.

Experience the benefits of transparent, efficient, and proactive environmental management. Contact us today to learn more about how our solutions can help your facility achieve its environmental goals.

The importance of baseline monitoring on construction sites: A Guide to Best Practices

Construction Resources

Introduction

Construction projects are essential for urban development, but they also bring challenges, particularly in managing environmental impacts. Baseline monitoring is a critical component of responsible construction practices, ensuring that any environmental changes are documented and managed effectively. This blog explores the importance of baseline monitoring on construction sites and outlines best practices according to various codes of practice.

What is Baseline Monitoring?

Baseline monitoring involves measuring and recording environmental conditions before construction begins. This initial data serves as a benchmark to assess the impacts of construction activities, ensuring that they do not adversely affect the environment and surrounding communities.

Why is Baseline Monitoring Essential?

  1. Environmental Protection: It helps in identifying and mitigating any potential harm to air, water, soil, and biodiversity.
  2. Community Health and Safety: Ensures that the well-being of nearby residents is protected from construction-related pollutants and disturbances.
  3. Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to baseline monitoring standards helps construction companies comply with local, national, and international regulations.
  4. Risk Management: Provides data to identify and manage potential environmental risks proactively.
  5. Informed Decision-Making: Accurate baseline data helps in making informed decisions throughout the construction process.

Key Elements of Baseline Monitoring

1. Air Quality Monitoring

  • Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5): Measure levels of particulate matter to control dust and air pollution.
  • Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and Other Pollutants: Monitor gaseous pollutants to ensure clean air.
  • Dust Deposition: Regularly check dust levels to implement effective dust control measures.

2. Noise and Vibration Monitoring

  • Baseline Noise Levels: Record existing noise levels to establish acceptable limits for construction noise.
  • Vibration Levels: Measure baseline vibrations to prevent structural damage and minimize disturbances to surrounding areas.

3. Water Quality Monitoring

  • Surface Water and Groundwater: Assess the quality of nearby water bodies to prevent contamination.
  • Runoff and Sedimentation: Monitor runoff patterns and sedimentation rates to maintain water quality.

Implementation of Baseline Monitoring

1. Pre-Construction Surveys

Conduct comprehensive environmental surveys before construction begins. This involves collecting data on air and water quality, noise levels and vibration levels.

2. Ongoing Monitoring

Continuously monitor environmental conditions throughout the construction process. This helps in detecting any deviations from baseline conditions and implementing corrective actions promptly.

3. Data Reporting

Regularly report monitoring data to relevant authorities and stakeholders. This ensures transparency and accountability, demonstrating compliance with environmental standards.

4. Mitigation Measures

Implement mitigation measures if monitoring data indicates negative impacts. This could include dust control, noise barriers, water treatment systems, and erosion control practices.

Best Practices for Effective Baseline Monitoring

  1. Use Advanced Monitoring Equipment: Employ state-of-the-art equipment for accurate and reliable data collection. Such as Campbell Associates range of Environmental monitors such as our SiteSens Noise & Dust monitor with cloud portal and 8-month battery life vibration monitor.
  2. Community Engagement: Involve the local community in monitoring efforts to build trust and address concerns.
  3. Review and Update Monitoring Plans: Regularly review and update monitoring plans to adapt to changing conditions and regulations.

Conclusion

Baseline monitoring is a vital practice for sustainable construction, helping to protect the environment and community health while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. By following best practices and adhering to codes of practice, construction companies can achieve a balance between development and environmental stewardship.

We are finding that more and more of our clients are being asked by Local Authorities to provide baseline monitoring before construction.

Are you starting a construction project? Ensure you meet all environmental requirements by implementing comprehensive baseline monitoring. Contact us for expert guidance and monitoring services tailored to your project’s needs. See more of our range here.

What is MCERTS and Why do you need a MCERTS approved Dust Monitor?

Air Quality & Dust

MCERTS is the certification scheme created by The Environment Agency for equipment, personnel and organisations. The aim of this scheme is to provide delivery vehicle for compliance with European Directives by regulating industrial emissions, monitoring data, equipment and personnel.

MCERTS certification indicates that the performance of the monitoring equipment has been tested under mixed environmental conditions and ensures that the accuracy, reliability and consistency meet the specifications set by the Environment Agency. 

When using equipment for monitoring  air quality/dust for regulatory purposes, it’s crucial to use equipment with MCERTS.

Dust particles can be spilt it various size categories for monitoring. Currently, the focus is PM10 and PM2.5 sized particles which refers to the size and diameter of the particle.

PM10 = 10 um in diameter

PM2.5 = 2.5 um in diameter.

PM = Particle Matter

What are the effects of breathing in dust (Particle Matter)?

PM10 particles can be inhaled into the lungs and cause adverse health effects.

PM2.5 has been linked to premature death, particularly in people who have chronic heart or lung diseases, and reduced lung function growth in children. They cause lung irritation and can worsen asthma and other related medical conditions. Long term exposure has more severe effects such as lung cancer and chronic bronchitis.

What does limits should I implement on my construction or demolition site?

According to IAQM guidance for construction and demolition sites and a recent report by King’s College that evaluated nine construction sites, a Site Action Level of 190 µg/m³ for PM10, measured as a 1-hour mean, is recommended.

Using MCerts-certified dust monitors focusing on PM10 particles, which are coarse particles measuring 10 µm in diameter and we are measuring dust deemed to cause significant health risks.

How can I measure PM10 & PM2.5?

Campbell Associates offer several solutions for MCERTS dust monitoring.

The DustSens DM30 monitor has MCERTS for both PM10 & PM2.5.  It provides real-time data alerts and mean average readings into a cloud platform. SMS & Email alerts are setup when exceedances have been hit, alerting workers on site to take action.

The Dust Sentry is another real-time monitor which is available in versions, with a MCERTS certificate for PM10 only & PM10/PM2.5. The monitor can also be upgraded to measure gases like NO2 and VOCs. Please get in touch to discuss your project requirements.