Saint-Gobain Ecophon launches two solutions to deal with the problem of noise and low frequencies in schools

However, the implementation of suitable modular ceiling and wall panel solutions makes it possible to respond to the various problems related to noise, to make schools more pleasant and conducive to learning. Today, Saint-Gobain Ecophon is launching two new solutions to effectively improve acoustics in schools:

• Akusto Wall C Extra Bass, a wall panel whose acoustic performance meets the needs of low frequencies;
• Super G Plus A, an acoustic modular ceiling solution particularly suitable for sports halls thanks to its impact resistance.

Noise in the classroom, a reality that impacts the daily lives of students and teachers alike

Saint-Gobain Ecophon has looked into the consequences of noise pollution in schools, by carrying out, in partnership with UNESCO's Sound Week, two OpinionWay surveys of pupils1, then teachers2. The results are final. Indeed, the first study shows that most students (86%) consider that there is too much noise in their school, especially in the following areas:

• The canteen (89%)
• The hallway (83%)
• The entrance hall (83%)
• The gymnasium (79%)
• Classrooms (34%)
• Study rooms (33%)

These nuisances inevitably have consequences on the well-being and concentration of students. Thus, 3 out of 4 students report having difficulty concentrating because of noise. For 74% of students surveyed, noise also prevents them from hearing their teacher's voice correctly.

The observation is the same for teachers, for whom noise also has a significant impact on the quality of their work, and even their health. They are indeed 66% to find their class too noisy, and 69% to declare that the noise is difficult to bear in the corridors. In the long term, the impact of noise on their physical and mental health is considerable.

“Survey results show that noise in schools is a real public health issue. However, this is not inevitable: suitable acoustic treatment solutions exist to reduce the sound level while improving the clarity of speech. These promote both student learning and teacher comfort. » Sylvain Coudret, Concept Developer Education & Office Ecophon.

Akusto Wall C Extra Bass, a wall panel suitable for low frequencies

Ventilation systems, conversations, noise from furniture in classrooms, passing through corridors are all everyday noises that disturb students and teachers in schools. These noises are mainly composed of low frequencies, annoying for the ear. This is because these spread easily, including through walls, and degrade the ability to hear higher frequencies. The perception of speech is then more difficult.

The new Akusto Wall C Extra Bass wall solution from Saint-Gobain Ecophon is a unique system on the market. Composed of the Ecophon Akusto Wall C solution and an additional Extra Bass absorber, the panel combines class A sound absorption with an action targeting particularly low frequency sounds. This allows them to be processed to better hear higher frequencies, such as consonants.

In addition, its ingenious design incorporates a ConnectTM hollow joint guide whose design creates a shadow effect, which makes the panel appear as small as 40 mm.

The panel is available in a wide range of timeless colors and surfaces, and in dimensions 2 x 700 x 600 mm. It can be placed both vertically and horizontally, for a modular installation, according to the needs of the spaces.

Super G Plus A, an impact-resistant acoustic ceiling solution

Saint-Gobain Ecophon is also extending its range of Super G acoustic ceilings, dedicated to environments requiring particularly robust and impact-resistant sound absorption solutions.

The Super G Plus A solution has been developed for spaces where maximum impact resistance is required, such as gymnasiums and sports halls. This system has a robust framework made up of semi-recessed sections, fixed directly to the support floor or to a suspended framework.

This keeps the panels in place and better withstands high mechanical shocks. Class 1A, Super G Plus A can withstand impacts up to 60 km/h.

Furthermore, aware of current environmental issues and committed to sustainable buildings, Saint-Gobain Ecophon relies on more sustainable materials and a policy of transparency with regard to its products. Also, like all of its sound-absorbing panels, these new solutions contain at least 42% recycled materials. The company has also carried out the Life Cycle Assessment of these products and makes them public in Environmental and Health Data Sheets (FDES), available for download from the INIES database.

1 Survey conducted from January 4 to 6, 2021 with a sample of 506 students representative of the population of middle and high school students in France.

2 Survey conducted online from December 1 to 6, 2021 with a sample of 318 teachers representative of the population of primary, middle and high school teachers.