Sports hall acoustics

Sports halls and gymnasiums are dynamic spaces bustling with various activities. From school assemblies to sports events, these large open structures with hard reflective surfaces have a common challenge—poor acoustics. For PE departments and teachers, ensuring quality acoustics is essential for clear communication and a comfortable atmosphere.

Why good acoustics matter in sports halls

Sport halls are not just venues for physical activities; they serve multiple purposes. Clear acoustics enhance the user experience during events like school assemblies, exams, and community activities. For schools, adhering to the UK Government’s Building Bulletin 93 (BB93) acoustic criteria helps ensure an environment conducive to teaching and learning.

BB93 acoustic criteria for schools

• New build sports halls: Reverberation time should be between 1.5 to 2 seconds (Tmf) depending on the size of the space.
• Refurbished sports halls: Reverberation time should be below 2 seconds regardless of the size.

For sports halls not attached to schools, good interior acoustics will lead to increased engagement and growth in users.

Choose impact-resistant acoustic panels

Given the high-impact activities in sports halls, selecting the correct impact-resistant acoustic panels is important. These panels ensure user safety and the longevity of the acoustic solution.

Ensure even coverage

Even distribution of acoustic absorption is key to achieving optimal performance. The surface area coverage required varies with the acoustic performance rating of the panels:
Class A rated panels: Require smallest level coverage for effective absorption.
Class C rated panels: Require more coverage to achieve similar acoustic performance.

Get some advice

Improving the acoustics in sports halls is not just about compliance with government standards but improving communication and user experience. Whether for a school or community space, investing in quality acoustic solutions like impact-resistant panels is essential.

Ready to experience the benefits from good sports hall acoustics? Contact us today to get started!