Conclusion

Upon close examination of acoustical aspects, it seems defining objectives and design criteria, carefully selecting construction materials and acoustically rated assemblies, choosing appropriate finishes, and diligently designing the interior space with proper layouts of adjacent areas are essential to create effective barriers to noise and vibration. This should be accomplished by taking into account Ontario Building Code standards, ASHRAE recommendations, and environmental criteria, including noise bylaws and Ministry of the Environment (MOE) guidelines.

Additionally, consideration should be given to acoustical specifications and shop drawings incorporating input from prime consultants to ensure proper implementation, addressing risk areas at abutments, transition details, and rigid connections and thereby creating more resilient assemblies to ease noise mitigation.

Ibrahim El-Hajj, M.Sc., Arch., EQI, CACB, MRAIC, BCQ, OAA, is a building envelope consultant and director of building quality assurance (BQA) at McIntosh Perry. He is responsible for administering and leading the BQA department to ensure deliverables are met and to maintain compliance with the relevant construction documentation, good architectural/engineering practices, and applicable codes and standards. With more than 20 years of experience in the architectural/construction field, El-Hajj has been actively involved in a range of work pertaining to building envelope elements and cladding systems, from design and documentation review through to system failure investigation. His predominant skills include the ability to critique designs, details, and specifications and to investigate and provide accurate opinions and practical solutions. El-Hajj can be reached at i.el-hajj@mcintoshperry.com.