(C) Wave Dynamics Ltd

TGD-E Common Space Requirements

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Technical Guidance Document E 2014 Regulation E2 requires that the common internal part of a building which provides direct access to a dwelling shall be designed and constructed as so to limit reverberation in the common part to a reasonable level.

This common space is limited to the space contained by walls and doors (including fire doors) immediately outside the dwelling entrance. The purpose of Regulation E2 is to provide residents with protection from noise generated in the common spaces. There are two methods of compliance:

  • Method A is intended for corridors, hallways and stairwells. This method requires all common spaces leading onto an apartment to be provided with a class C ceiling equal to the area of the floor.
  • Method B is for corridors hallways and entrance halls. This requires theoretical calculations of the sound absorption based on the finishes and volume of the space. The Method B requirements are as follows:
    • for entrance halls, provide a minimum of 0.2 m2 total absorption area per cubic metre of the volume.
    • For corridors and hallways, provide a minimum of 0.25 m2 total absorption area per cubic metre of the volume.

The performance of the common space ceiling is dependent on the tested arrangement of the proposed ceiling. This includes consideration of the plenum depth (ceiling cavity) and if insulation is specifically required.

For more information or to request a quotation to undertake a Regulation E2 assessment drop us a mail at info@wdacoustics.com

Wave Dynamics at the National Construction Summit

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Our managing director  James Cousins will be speaking at the National Construction Summit. Feel free to drop by for the for the talk or a coffee afterwards, for more information on the National Construction Summit visit https://www.nationalconstructionsummit.ie/speakers/ 

James’s talk with focus on acoustics and sustainable design:

Recent studies have shown that building acoustic design plays a key role in the occupant’s health, wellbeing and comfort. The acoustic design of buildings has traditionally focused on criteria developed from standards, building regulations and research publications to make them fit for function. While targeted measurable performance requirements are very important for the acoustic design, sustainability has broadened to take a whole building approach with the occupants at the centre of the acoustic design strategy. A holistic design approach leads to positive health outcomes including; improving the distraction of students in schools leading to improved academic performance, reduced stress and annoyance in the workplace, improved productivity and better health outcomes for patients in healthcare settings. Sustainable building rating assessments including LEED, BREEAM, WELL and HPI all consider acoustics a key element of sustainable design. This has been recognised by the inclusion of project specific assessments within their certification schemes. This talk explores the relationship between sustainable design, building acoustics and the benefits of targeting a high-performance acoustic environment.