The effect of noise pollution on our environment has become a vital issue in the last few years, especially with the sharp increase in building activity. Social concern over noise pollution has led to a market demand for quieter buildings. Growing criticism from environmentalists and other pressure groups has highlighted some of the problems noise pollution can pose. As a result, we are seeing a rapid increase in noise legislation, both nationally and internationally. This highly practical book pinpoints a wide range of noise hazards found in and around the built environment. It considers the efficiency, application, possible drawbacks and cost effectiveness of various noise control options, putting forward both preventive and remedial measures. It also assesses the degree of the sound reduction likely to be achieved using different methods. The authors favour the elimination of noise at the design stage of construction as being the most cost effective and best practice. This book is distinguished by its wide ranging subject matter, and its particular interest in solving day to day problems caused by noise. It offers an invaluable manual to environmental health officers, engineers, architects, scientists and anyone who is immediately concerned by noise pollution in a modern life.