The Acoustics Laboratory of the Technological Institute of Aragon (ITA) has become the first laboratory in Spain to be accredited according to Delegated Regulation (EU) 2024/1208, after adapting its procedures to the modification of the European directive on noise emissions that came into force in May 2025.
This update, adopted by the European Commission on November 16, 2023, amends Directive 2000/14/EC as regards the methods for measuring environmental noise emitted by equipment intended for use outdoors. The aim is to modernize and bring the technical measurement procedures into line with current technological developments.
This Delegated Regulation is yet another example of the European Union's efforts in the fight against noise pollution, which on the one hand generates increasingly restrictive regulations and on the other hand increases investment in R&D activities to develop new technologies for quieter products through the Horizon Europe program.
These sound power tests are performed as part of the certification processes that certify compliance with Directive 2000/14/EC for new models of machinery. In the case of certain types of machinery, they are subject to sound emission limits and the intervention of a Notified Body is mandatory. Other types, on the other hand, only have to meet the requirements for the corresponding marking.
The main users of these services are machinery manufacturers, especially in the construction sector, although they are also used by gardening companies and manufacturers of general-purpose equipment whose noise may affect the urban and rural environment. Occasionally, public administration market surveillance officers also request these tests.
In a context of growing sensitivity to environmental impact and people's well-being, noise reduction is consolidating as a strategic factor for business competitiveness. Beyond a simple nuisance, noise is considered an indicator of quality, efficiency and sustainability, key aspects in an increasingly demanding market.
All the information on noise analysis and testing at this link.
