IOA Certificate of Competence in Environmental Noise Measurement

Autumn 2026

Accredited by the Institute of Acoustics, this 5 day short course (plus examination day) will provide students with the basic knowledge of the theories, methods and processes of environmental noise measurement.

Autumn Session:

Students must be able to commit to being available from 21st September to 25th September inclusive, plus Friday 9th October 2026 (revision and exam).

Joining instructions will be sent shortly before the event.

Course Description

This course is divided into five key areas:

Basic Concepts of Environmental Noise

You’ll receive an overview of the basic definitions and principles of sound, noise indices, and units, and the basic calculations involving decibels and noise indices.

Instrumentation for Environmental Noise Measurement

You will go through the basic features and properties of an integrating sound level meter. We will also consider the importance of both field and laboratory calibration requirements.

Noise Indices and Measurement Methodologies for Environmental Noise Measurement

You will review noise assessment methods and standards, including the new guidance documents on noise in relation to planning applications, BS4142, CRTN, and BS5228. The focus here is very much on measurement methodology and less so on the legislative requirements.

Environmental Noise Measurement in Practice

We’ll encourage you to focus on the principles and good practice of noise measurement in the field, including those stipulated in BS7445.  You will also consider the limitations of noise measurement through the application of practical case studies and uncertainty. There will be plenty of opportunities to practise your skills outdoors.

Overview of Noise Propagation

This part of the course focuses on the propagation of noise from point and line sources and the effects of the environment on noise propagation.