Product Overview

Summary: This SOP sets out practical, engineering-based noise reduction strategies for HVAC systems to protect workers, tenants and the public from excessive noise exposure. It helps Australian businesses systematically assess, control and monitor HVAC noise to meet WHS obligations, improve comfort, and reduce the risk of noise-induced hearing issues and complaints.

Noise from HVAC plant rooms, rooftop units, exhaust systems and ductwork can be a significant source of occupational and environmental noise exposure in commercial, industrial and residential buildings. This Safe Operating Procedure provides a structured, repeatable method for identifying noise sources in HVAC systems, assessing associated risks, and implementing engineering and administrative controls to reduce noise at the source, along the path and at the receiver. It is designed specifically for the Australian WHS context, integrating practical field steps with relevant standards and regulatory expectations.

By following this SOP, organisations can move beyond ad hoc noise fixes and adopt a consistent, documented approach that stands up to regulatory scrutiny and client expectations. The procedure covers design and retrofit considerations, selection of low-noise equipment, acoustic treatment of plant rooms and ductwork, vibration isolation, maintenance practices that influence noise levels, and communication with building occupants. It helps businesses reduce the risk of noise-induced hearing loss, manage nuisance noise complaints, and demonstrate due diligence under WHS legislation and environmental noise requirements, while also supporting energy-efficient, high-performing HVAC operation.

Key Benefits

• Reduce occupational noise exposure from HVAC systems, lowering the risk of noise-induced hearing loss and WHS non-compliance.
• Ensure a systematic, documented approach to HVAC noise management that aligns with Australian standards and regulatory expectations.
• Improve occupant comfort and satisfaction by minimising nuisance noise in offices, healthcare, education and residential environments.
• Optimise HVAC design, installation and maintenance practices to prevent noise problems before they arise, reducing costly retrofits and disputes.
• Support consistent training and decision-making for facility, maintenance and project teams when planning or modifying HVAC plant.

Who is this for?

• Facility Managers
• Building Services Engineers
• HVAC Technicians
• WHS Managers
• Property and Asset Managers
• Maintenance Supervisors
• Construction Project Managers
• Mechanical Services Contractors

Hazards Addressed

• Noise-induced hearing loss from prolonged exposure to loud plant rooms and mechanical equipment
• Nuisance and stress-related health effects from continuous low-level HVAC noise in occupied spaces
• Communication difficulties and reduced situational awareness in noisy plant areas
• Increased risk of slips, trips, falls or contact with moving parts due to masking of audible alarms or warnings by HVAC noise
• Potential non-compliance with workplace noise exposure limits and environmental noise criteria

Included Sections

• 1.0 Purpose and Scope
• 2.0 Definitions and Abbreviations (Noise, dB(A), LAeq, HVAC Components)
• 3.0 Roles and Responsibilities (WHS, Facilities, Contractors, Engineers)
• 4.0 Applicable Legislation, Standards and Codes of Practice
• 5.0 Overview of HVAC Noise Sources and Transmission Paths
• 6.0 Noise Risk Assessment Process for HVAC Systems
• 7.0 Design and Planning Controls for New and Upgraded HVAC Installations
• 8.0 Engineering Noise Control Measures (Source, Path and Receiver Controls)
• 9.0 Vibration Isolation and Mounting Requirements
• 10.0 Ductwork, Louvres, Silencers and Acoustic Treatment Guidelines
• 11.0 Operational and Administrative Controls (Scheduling, Access, Signage)
• 12.0 Preventive Maintenance Practices Influencing Noise Levels
• 13.0 Noise Monitoring, Measurement and Record-Keeping Procedures
• 14.0 Communication with Occupants and Management of Noise Complaints
• 15.0 Contractor Management and Commissioning Requirements
• 16.0 Training, Competency and Awareness
• 17.0 Review, Audit and Continuous Improvement of Noise Controls
• 18.0 Document Control and Version History

Legislation & References

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) and corresponding state and territory WHS Acts
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 (Cth) – Noise provisions
• Safe Work Australia – Code of Practice: Managing Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss at Work
• AS/NZS 1269 series: Occupational noise management
• AS 2107: Acoustics – Recommended design sound levels and reverberation times for building interiors
• AS/NZS 3666 series: Air-handling and water systems of buildings – Microbial control (for integrated HVAC management)
• Local environmental protection authority (EPA) noise guidelines and policies relevant to building services