Acoustical consulting combines the art and science of managing sound within a particular space. It is a service that many businesses need, including some that you might not think of immediately. At Avant Acoustics, our acoustical consultants have experience in a broad range of environments. We strive to help our clients achieve an environment that is comfortable to be in and has fewer distractions from noise. Another important focus area for our team of experts is safety. You may not think of noise as being dangerous, but the fact is, loud noises can damage your hearing permanently. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), “Exposure to noise greater than 140 dB can permanently damage hearing.” In fact, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has regulations requiring that workers’ hearing is protected on the job. 

 

 

One place where acoustical consulting is vitally important is the shooting range. After all, guns are loud, particularly when fired indoors. If you operate or work at an indoor shooting range, or if you use one recreationally or for work (such as law enforcement) your hearing is at risk unless you take the proper precautions. Even shooters wearing ear protection, if it is not the appropriate type, risk permanent ear damage and hearing loss. According to Outdoor Life, “There’s never a good excuse not to wear hearing protection while shooting.” But what can you, as the owner/operator of the range, do to help ensure your customers’ safety?

The acoustical consulting experts at Avant Acoustics can show you how to implement changes that will reduce the overall noise levels within your indoor shooting range. It’s not only good business, it is required by law. OSHA standards state that employers must implement a hearing conservation program when noise levels exceed 85 decibels (db) over an 8 hour period, or an 8-hour time-weighted average. Almost all firearms create noise that exceeds 140db, and even a single exposure at this level can cause permanent hearing damage. Your business can be cited and fined if you do not take the proper precautions to protect your employees. 

 

You may be asking yourself, “What does acoustical consulting entail?” For a space such as a shooting range, our team will analyze how sound moves within the space. What types of surfaces may be reflecting or amplifying sound? Is there any type of sound dampening material in place? They will discuss your day-to-day operations as well, in order to determine if the sound levels are a lot higher at some times and lower than others, in order to ensure that any sound mitigation strategies are designed to dampen noise at the loudest times. When the analysis is complete, our acoustical consulting team will present you with options for improving the acoustics of the space and an estimate for implementing them. Once you have determined a course of action, Avant will guide you every step of the way, from design to implementation. Our services also include any training that you or your staff may require to operate and maintain your new equipment.

 

Recreational shooting is increasing in popularity, and there will always be those who need to keep their shooting skills sharp as part of their employment. As the owner/operator of a shooting range, we know that safety is your top priority. Let the acoustical consulting experts at Avant Acoustics show you sound solutions to protect your hearing, as well as that of your employees and customers. The neighbors will be happier, too! With clients from Boston to L.A., across the U.S. and around the world, Avant Acoustics has options that will fit your needs. Contact us online today or call (913) 888-9111 to learn more.