Acoustic Curtains – what are they and why do you need them?

Acoustic curtains (also called noise reduction barriers or NRBs) are heavy-duty vinyl panels attached to temporary fencing or scaffolding to block construction noise. Site HQ’s acoustic curtains can reduce airborne noise by up to 20dB and are used to help sites comply with council Noise and Vibration Management Plans (NVMPs).

The last 10 years has seen a dramatic rise in the number of construction projects as the government pushes to build new and upgrade old road and rail infrastructure – often straight through many of our local suburbs. This not only causes traffic delays but for those who live or work in close proximity to these projects they are often subjected to irritating and some cases sleep depriving noise.

With increasing pressure from impacted residents and workers, councils are beginning to crack down on construction noise and these high impact projects now require the builder to provide a Noise and Vibration Management Plan (NVMP). Acoustic Curtains or as they are otherwise known, Noise Reduction Barriers have become an essential element on construction projects and building sites to mitigate the noise pollution emanating from their site while ensuring they remain compliant and allow for their noisy works to continue – even after hours.

Even smaller residential or domestic projects are seeing the value in helping to keep the noise down on their sites and ultimately keep their neighbours happy.

How do Acoustic curtains work?

Acoustic curtains help contain construction and machinery noise before it travels beyond the site boundary. They achieve this by combining sound-reflective vinyl matting, sound-absorbing materials and acoustic felt to both block airborne noise and reduce reverberation around the work area.

Despite their durable construction, the curtains remain lightweight and flexible. They can be attached to temporary fencing, permanent fencing or scaffolding using heavy-duty cable ties, making them suitable for a wide range of construction environments.

Overlapping Velcro strips along the vertical edges allow adjoining curtains to seal tightly together. This helps minimise gaps where sound could otherwise escape. Depending on the source and frequency of the noise, the curtains can reduce airborne construction or machinery noise by up to 38 dBA.

Key features include:

Up to 20 dB of airborne noise reduction
Durable vinyl and acoustic felt construction
Sound-reflective and sound-absorbing properties
Suitable for fencing and scaffolding systems
Overlapping Velcro edges for a tighter seal
Lightweight, flexible and easy to install

It is important to remember that acoustic curtains create a solid surface with no wind permeability. When attached to temporary fencing, this can significantly increase wind loading.

Additional support bracing and counterweights may therefore be required to keep the temporary fencing stable and compliant with AS 4687:2022, the Australian Standard that sets requirements for the design, construction and installation of temporary fencing and hoardings. The Site HQ team can help determine the appropriate bracing and counterweight solution for your site.

FAQs

For the acoustic curtain article can we add the following FAQs How much noise do acoustic curtains reduce?

Site HQ Acoustic Curtains can reduce airborne construction and machinery noise by up to 20 dB, depending on the frequency of the noise. Their combination of sound-reflective vinyl, sound-absorbing material and acoustic felt helps block noise and reduce reverberation. For the best performance, adjoining curtains should overlap and seal tightly to minimise gaps where sound can escape.

Do I need a Noise and Vibration Management Plan for my construction site?

Not every construction site automatically requires a Noise and Vibration Management Plan, or NVMP. Requirements vary according to the project location, planning and approval conditions, working hours, expected noise levels and proximity to neighbouring properties. Major infrastructure projects, high-impact works and construction outside standard hours are more likely to require a formal plan. Builders should confirm the requirements with their local council, relevant state EPA and project approval authority.

What Australian Standards apply to construction noise barriers?

AS 2436-2010 provides guidance on controlling noise and vibration on construction, demolition and maintenance sites, including the preparation of Noise and Vibration Management Plans. When acoustic curtains are installed on temporary fencing, the supporting fence system should also comply with AS 4687:2022, the Australian Standard for temporary fencing and hoardings. Local council requirements, environmental laws and project-specific approval conditions may also apply.

Can acoustic curtains be attached to temporary fencing?

Yes. Acoustic curtains can be attached to temporary fencing, permanent fencing or scaffolding using heavy-duty cable ties. The overlapping Velcro edges should be joined securely to reduce gaps between adjoining curtains. Because the curtains form a solid surface with no wind permeability, additional bracing and counterweights may be required to keep temporary fencing stable and compliant with AS 4687:2022.

So, if you are looking to reduce the noise on your site and ensure you adhere to council regulations, while also keeping your neighbours happy. Talk to Site HQ, we would be happy to assist you and let’s help protect people from the harmful effects of prolonged construction and machinery noise. Give us a call on 1300 748 347 today.