Brexit and the use of British Standards in Ireland.
It is the Association of Acoustic Consultants view that BSI standards continue to be functional and available for reference. It is important to understand that the use of Standards is a voluntary process and not a legal requirement. Our members will continue applying BSI standards where appropriate.
The British Standards commonly used by the AACI in the Republic of Ireland are:
- BS 8233:2014, Guidance on sound insulation and noise reduction for buildings.
- BS 4142:2014+A1:2019. Methods for rating and assessing industrial and commercial sound.
- BS 5228-1:2009+A1:2014. Code of practice for noise and vibration control on construction and open sites. Noise
- BS 5228-2:2009+A1:2014. Code of practice for noise and vibration control on construction and open sites. Vibration
In addition to the British Standards above however, there are other standards that could be considered for use within the EU. These European standards have been listed.
CEN/TC 126, Acoustic properties of building elements and of buildings
CEN – Technical Bodies – CEN/TC 126
The Europeans are adopting the International standards from ISO 43/SC 2, Building acoustics
ISO – ISO/TC 43/SC 2 – Building acoustics
It is noted that BS 8233 is referenced in the Irish Building Technical Guidance, Part E and this may be subject to an amendment in a future revision of the document.
At present, it is the AACI’s view that the British Standards above remain current and are likely to remain fit for purpose following Brexit in the short to medium term. The AACI may continue however to explore the contents of CEN and ISO Standards and provide advice on situations where other standards may be more applicable in the long term.
Issued by the Association of Acoustic Consultants of Ireland, 4th February 2021.
