Noise, vibration and acoustical design, construction, commissioning and operation practices influence building cost, efficiency, performance and effectiveness. Parameters for structural vibration, building systems noise, acoustics and environmental noise crossing property boundaries will be presented with brief case studies illustrating noise and vibration problems with successful solutions. Building mechanical, power, and plumbing systems contribute to building operations noise and vibration, which affects building occupants, sensitive installations, and functional uses. Various noise and vibration design criteria, field measurements, design concepts and specifications can be applied in facilities to achieve noise mitigation and vibration control to enhance building operations and reduce tenant or neighbor problems. Concepts for enhancement will be presented that achieve specific program criteria and improve the built environment for occupants and functional uses, including items to incorporate in specifications and construction documents. Concepts relating to noise and vibration control can also reduce short and long-term operations costs and save energy. Acoustical designs can be implemented in new construction to achieve specific requirements for LEED certification in healthcare and educational facilities. Common problems, objective criteria, sensitive installations, and solutions will be presented to offer a basic understanding of effective noise and vibration control for central plant equipment, power systems, transformers, standby generators, and roof mounted HVAC equipment
