Harmonization of sound insulation descriptors and classification schemes in Europe: COST Action TU0901

Regulatory sound insulation requirements for dwellings exist in more than 30 countries in Europe. Classification schemes exist at present (2010) in 10 countries. In some countries, sound insulation requirements have existed since the 1950s. The first classification schemes for dwellings were implemented in the early 1990s.
Findings from comparative studies of regulatory sound insulation requirements in 24 countries in Europe and sound classification schemes in 10 countries show that sound insulation descriptors, regulatory requirements and classification schemes in Europe represent a high degree of diversity. Unfortunately, there is no sign on increasing harmonization, rather the contrary, i.e. evidence for an even more diverse situation in Europe. The studies conclude that harmonization of descriptors and sound insulation classes are needed to facilitate exchange of data and experience between countries and to reduce trade barriers. Most important is, however, that review of sound insulation requirements should be encouraged in several countries to adapt regulations to current construction trends and peoples' needs for health, wellbeing and comfort.
Looking into the future, harmonization of sound insulation requirements seems unrealistic. However, by preparing a harmonized European classification scheme with a number of quality classes, member states could select a "harmonized" class fitting the national needs and conditions.
A joint European Action, COST Action TU0901 "Integrating and Harmonizing Sound Insulation Aspects in Sustainable Urban Housing Constructions" has been approved and runs for four years from November 2009. Until now (end 2010), 28 countries in Europe and 3 overseas countries have signed up for TU0901, and about 85 people have been nominated for the management committee and working groups. The main objectives of TU0901 are to prepare proposals for harmonized sound insulation descriptors and for a European sound classification scheme with a number of quality classes for dwellings. Other goals are e.g. to establish a catalogue of sound insulation data and an on-line compendium on good workmanship.
The paper will summarize the background, discuss the present situation in Europe and describe the joint efforts to reduce the diversity in Europe, thus supporting and initiating – where needed – improvement of sound insulation of new and existing dwellings in Europe to the benefit of the inhabitants and the society.

References
[1] "Sound insulation between dwellings – Descriptors in building regulations in Europe" by Birgit Rasmussen & Jens Holger Rindel. Applied Acoustics, 2010, 71(3), 171-180. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.apacoust.2009.05.002
[2] "Sound insulation between dwellings – Requirements in building regulations in Europe" by Birgit Rasmussen. Applied Acoustics, 2010, 71(4), 373-385.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.apacoust.2009.08.011
[3] "Sound insulation of residential housing – building codes and classification schemes in Europe" by Birgit Rasmussen. In: Crocker Malcolm J, Editor-in-Chief. Handbook of noise and vibration control, USA: Wiley and Son; 2007 [Ch. 114].
[4] COST Action TU0901 “Integrating and Harmonizing Sound Insulation Aspects in Sustainable Urban Housing Constructions”, 2009-2013, www.cost.eu/index.php?id=240&action_number=tu0901 (public information at COST website) or http://www.costtu0901.eu/ (Action website).