Noise Controlled Effectively at one of London's Most Recognisable Buildings

Project Overview

As the tallest building in the United Kingdom until 2012, One Canada Square is one of London’s most recognisable properties. The building provides a prestigious postcode to the headquarters of many multi-national businesses, and also houses retail space and restaurants.

Designed by Pelli Clarke Pelli, the towering skyscraper set the benchmark for innovative high-rise design technology with 32 high-speed passenger lifts serving the 1.2 million square foot building. One Canada Square’s pyramid roof, containing a flashing aircraft warning light, has become iconic in itself after appearing multiple times on television and in films, including James Bond: World is Not Enough, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix and The Bourne Supremacy.

RVT was engaged by stonework specialists M&S Restorations, to provide noise control measures to recent stone and tarmac cutting works. The unavoidable production of intense noise levels would pose a health hazard to those working, shopping and enjoying the leisure facilities at the complex. M&S Restorations needed a powerful and practical solution that could be rapidly deployed on site.

Challenge

At the last pre-meeting prior to works commencing, M&S Restorations was presented with an unforeseen noise control issue. The principal contractor had not notified an on site high-profile restaurant of the imminent and profound noise disturbance. The considerable amount of high pitch noise expected to be produced meant that last-minute measures needed to be immediately secured to keep the works on schedule

Solution

RVT provided prompt assistance and identified that the Soundex Acoustic Curtain system would quickly solve the contractor’s problem.

RVT’s BS EN 32.9 dB rated curtains are the noise reducing solution of choice for many contractors. The system provides superior sound attenuation and absorption, as verified by the independent testing and certification service, Bureau Veritas.

Used in projects ranging from utilities maintenance to street works and civil engineering, the Soundex acoustic curtains would reduce the noise at One Canada Square by up to 32.9dB. The curtains are specifically engineered to screen intense noise and their unique velcro fastenings ensure that a seamless barrier can be maintained to protect the public and surrounding businesses from auditory disturbance. The system also incorporates eyelets onto all edges to enable easy suspension.

The system’s fold-and-lay-flat design enables easy storage and transportation meaning that delivery and installation is efficient – exactly what M&S Restorations needed.

“This was a last-minute call issue that was overcome with the assistance of RVT with their Acoustic Panels. All of the works have been carried out without any sort of problems or complaints from the restaurant. The client was very impressed with the results.” - Site Supervisor, M&S Restorations Limited