The following refers to regulations in Germany; other countries apply their own limit values. Under the AVV Baulärm (the German general administrative regulation on construction noise), hospitals and care facilities form a category of their own with the strictest immission guide values: 45 dB(A) during the day and 35 dB(A) at night. Schools and nurseries are assessed according to the zoning of their location (e.g. 55/40 dB(A) in a general residential area), but in their case-by-case assessment the authorities treat them as particularly sensitive uses – and the requirements placed on the noise control concept are correspondingly high. At the same time, refurbishments and extensions here usually take place while the facility remains in operation – patients, residents and pupils stay on site.
Requirements in sensitive environments
- High insulation performance: Premium noise barrier mats with a sound reduction index of 23 dB, double-layered where required.
- Flame-retardant: For escape routes and areas close to buildings we recommend the flame-retardant version; certificates are available on request.
- Washable: The closed surface can be washed down – important in a clinical environment.
- Quiet installation: Fixed with cable ties, with no drilling or screwing, even outside quiet hours.
- Privacy screening: Patient rooms and classrooms are shielded from view.
Combining indoor and outdoor use
During refurbishment of existing buildings, noise barrier mats also serve as mobile partitions in corridors and construction phases. For rooftop plant (air-conditioning units, emergency generators), the lightweight noise barrier for rooftop installations is the right choice. In Germany, noise protection requirements at the workplace are governed by the Lärm- und Vibrations-Arbeitsschutzverordnung (LärmVibrationsArbSchV, the German occupational noise and vibration ordinance).
Frequently asked questions about noise control at hospitals and schools
What noise levels are permitted near hospitals?
For hospitals and care facilities, the AVV Baulärm sets 45 dB(A) during the day and 35 dB(A) at night – the strictest category, shared with spa areas. Schools are assessed according to the zone type of their location.
Can the mats also be used indoors?
Yes, as mobile partitions on construction site fences or scaffold frames in corridors, halls and construction phases.
How are the mats cleaned?
Wash them down with water and a mild detergent; the surface is closed and does not absorb dust.
How quickly can the mats be delivered?
Standard sizes are usually available from stock at short notice; we state the exact delivery time in the quote.
Do I need flame-retardant mats?
Near escape routes, oxygen systems and building openings we recommend the flame-retardant version; clarify the requirement with the fire safety officer.