Poor acoustics in school sports halls aren’t just irritating—they’re disruptive, potentially harmful, and non-compliant with UK regulations
.These large, hard-surfaced environments are known for their high reverberation and echo, making communication difficult, raising stress levels, and creating a chaotic atmosphere that affects both pupils and staff.
If you’re responsible for specifying or upgrading acoustic treatments in educational buildings, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about acoustic panel specification for sports halls. From BB93 compliance to impact resistance and product recommendations, this is a practical, SEO-optimised guide for school leaders, facilities managers and architects.
Why Acoustic Panels Matter in Sports Halls
Sports halls are some of the most acoustically challenging environments in any school. The combination of:
- Large internal volume
- Hard floors, walls and ceilings
- Minimal soft furnishings
- High levels of activity and noise
...all result in excessive reverberation, which can reach dangerous levels for hearing and comfort.
Understanding BB93 and Sports Hall Acoustic Standards
According to Building Bulletin 93 (BB93), sports halls must achieve a reverberation time of ≤ 2.0 seconds (Tmf) in the mid-frequency range.
Failure to meet this standard can:
- Breach planning conditions
- Result in DfE non-compliance
- Undermine your school’s commitment to inclusion
Key Specification Criteria for Acoustic Panels in Sports Halls
- Impact Resistance: Must withstand repeated ball strikes and physical contact
- Class A Sound Absorption: Particularly at 500–2000 Hz
- High-Level Wall Fixing: To avoid tampering or obstruction
- Fire Rated: Must meet Class 0 or Euroclass B standards
- Durable & Cleanable: Wipeable finishes are ideal
Recommended Product: ZEN Impacta Acoustic Panel
Where to Install Acoustic Panels in a Sports Hall
Key zones to treat include:
- Upper side walls – to absorb early reflections
- End walls – to control long axial sound reflections
- Ceilings (optional) – for high-ceilinged spaces, use baffles or rafts
Tip: Avoid floor-level mounting due to the risk of damage or reduced performance.
How Many Panels Do You Need?
As a general rule, treat around 30–40% of the surface area to achieve BB93 targets.
Get a free acoustic assessment →
Product Spotlight: ZEN Impacta Acoustic Panel
- Reinforced for impact resistance
- Class A sound absorption (NRC ≥ 0.90)
- Available in custom colours and sizes
- Fire rated and surface washable
Installation Tips
- Use high-level brackets or mechanical fixings
- Avoid placing panels directly above court lines or activity zones
- Use a symmetrical layout for even acoustic coverage
Need help? Our UK-wide installation team can support your project from design to fitting.
How Acoustic Treatment Improves Wellbeing
- Improves communication in noisy environments
- Reduces anxiety and overstimulation for SEN pupils
- Supports safety and instruction during physical activity
- Protects teacher's vocal health
Get Expert Help: Free Planning and Quotation Service
Presentation Spaces offers:
- Free BB93-compliant acoustic assessments
- Quote and layout planning support
- DfE procurement guidance
- Optional UK-wide installation
📧 info@presentationspaces.co.uk
📞 01382 913913
Key Takeaways
- BB93 requires reverberation ≤ 2.0 seconds
- Sports halls need impact-resistant acoustic panels
- ZEN Impacta is robust, BB93-compliant and SEN-friendly
- Panels should be placed on upper walls and end surfaces
- Presentation Spaces offers expert, tailored support for UK schools
