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From Intern to Engineer: Building a Career in Acoustics in Thailand

Contracting & Compliance in Acoustics /

From Intern to Engineer: Growing Careers in Acoustics in Thailand The field of acoustics is rapidly expanding in Thailand and across ASEAN. With increasing demand for sustainable cities, quieter buildings, and healthier living environments, acoustic engineers play a vital role in solving real-world noise and vibration problems. Many graduates discover this career through internships with acoustic consultancies or laboratories. After experiencing hands-on projects, some choose to continue as full-time engineers, building rewarding careers while contributing to society. What skills does an acoustic engineer need? Acoustic engineers combine technical expertise with practical problem-solving. In Thailand, this typically includes: What projects do young engineers work on? At Geonoise Thailand and similar consultancies, young professionals contribute to: These projects allow interns and young graduates to grow quickly, gaining both technical and leadership experience. Why does Thailand need more acoustic engineers? As urban areas expand, noise pollution is becoming a critical environmental and health challenge. Thailand — and the wider ASEAN region — needs more specialists who can: With the right training, young engineers can not only build rewarding careers but also improve quality of life for millions of people. Career pathways in acoustics For students considering this field, internships are the best way to gain exposure. Many engineers, like Punyakorn, discover their passion through hands-on experience with real projects. From there, opportunities open up in: 👉 Interested in following more stories like this?Follow AAT.news for bilingual updates on acoustics careers, research, and events across Thailand and ASEAN.

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After months of tolerance, Pattaya takes firm action against noisy Kuwaiti motorcycle groups

Noise Disturbance /

Thailand’s Pattaya Pattaya police and local administrative officers have finally launched a coordinated operation to rein in rowdy foreign motorbike riders—many of whom have been identified as Kuwaiti nationals—who have been disturbing peace with their reckless driving and late-night revving after months of public frustration and sleepless nights in Soi Yensabai. On July 15, at approximately 2:50 a.m., security division head Nathaphop Yomjinda from the Banglamung District Office and officers from Pattaya Police Station, under the command of Pol. Capt. Chaowalit Suwanmanee, established a checkpoint inside the soi. 14 motorcycles were seized by the joint patrol, which concentrated on riders without valid licenses and vehicles with illegally loud exhaust modifications. Local residents say they have endured nightly chaos from foreign riders—especially big bikes operated by Arab tourists—who race up and down the narrow lanes, revving engines and disrupting entire neighborhoods. One resident commented that it seems like the riders think the area is their playground, making noise all night and then scattering and returning as soon as police leave. Even when checkpoints are established, some groups use messaging apps to warn each other, often abandoning their bikes temporarily and walking around until the coast is clear. Locals are calling for stronger and more permanent enforcement to restore peace to the community. On social media, irate residents have voiced their frustration over the ongoing issue and questioned why bike rental companies are permitted to distribute bikes without verifying licenses. Many people think that police should hold rental companies responsible and put repeat offenders on a blacklist if they are serious about solving the problem. Recently, while sitting outside, one resident reported seeing riders even driving on the sidewalk, with police simply passing by without intervening. In order to use the Immigration Act to deport violators who pose a threat to public order, some have proposed involving immigration authorities. Others have questioned whether motorcycle rental companies—especially those that alter bikes or disregard safety inspections in order to increase profits during tourist seasons—are being held accountable. In order to ensure that both renters and rental shops face consequences, authorities have promised more forceful action, indicating plans for wider coordination with immigration, tourist police, and local licensing offices. The public’s increasing demand for substantive solutions rather than sporadic nightly checkpoints is reflected in this operation. One officer stated, “This is about defending the rights of local residents to sleep in peace, not about targeting foreigners.” “And we haven’t finished yet.”  On July 15, at approximately 2:50 a.m., security division head Nathaphop Yomjinda from the Banglamung District Office and officers from Pattaya Police Station, under the command of Pol. Capt. Chaowalit Suwanmanee, established a checkpoint inside the soi. 14 motorcycles were seized by the joint patrol, which concentrated on riders without valid licenses and vehicles with illegally loud exhaust modifications. Local residents say they have endured nightly chaos from foreign riders—especially big bikes operated by Arab tourists—who race up and down the narrow lanes, revving engines and disrupting entire neighborhoods. One resident commented that it seems like the riders think the area is their playground, making noise all night and then scattering and returning as soon as police leave. Even when checkpoints are established, some groups use messaging apps to warn each other, often abandoning their bikes temporarily and walking around until the coast is clear. Locals are calling for stronger and more permanent enforcement to restore peace to the community. References www.pattayamail.com

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การทดสอบกำแพงกันเสียงและมาตรฐาน

Testing of Sound Barriers and Standards

ISO Standards, Noise Barrier, Sound Absorption, STC /

The effectiveness of a sound barrier cannot be assessed by design or materials alone—it must be verified with internationally recognized test results. Acoustic Laboratory Thailand Co., Ltd. (ALT) offers expert sound barrier testing in a laboratory setting (Lab Test) according to the following international standards: Laboratory Test 1. Sound Transmission Loss Testing Conducted according to ISO 10140-2, EN 1793, or ASTM E90 standards Tests the Sound Transmission Loss (STL) of barriers or material panels Measures sound insulation performance across specific frequencies, such as 125 Hz to 5000 Hz or broader ranges Results can be evaluated as ratings like Rw or STC, which numerically represent the material’s sound-blocking performance ALT provides fully equipped standard testing chambers capable of performing these tests to ensure that selected materials or barriers meet required acoustic performance specifications. 2. Sound Absorption Testing Conducted in accordance with ISO 354, ISO 11654, or ASTM C423 Uses a reverberation chamber to measure the sound absorption properties of materials Results are presented as the Sound Absorption Coefficient (SAC) across various frequencies or as the NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient), which is an average value Helps determine how effectively a material absorbs sound within the targeted frequency range These tests assist designers and developers in selecting the most suitable soundproofing materials based on real-world application requirements. Field Test For sound barriers installed in real-world environments, a key method is measuring Sound Insertion Loss (SIL) in accordance with ISO 10847, which evaluates the actual impact of the barrier on the surrounding acoustic environment. Additionally, modern technology enables in-situ sound absorption testing using the Local Plane Wave technique and Array Microphone systems. In Thailand, there are acoustic specialists capable of conducting such field tests on noise barriers, ensuring that the results accurately reflect real site conditions.

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After residents were disturbed by noise complaints, a Pattaya bar was raided

Noise Disturbance, Thailand Noise News /

After receiving multiple complaints about excessive noise disturbing the tranquility of the locals, Pattaya City Police swiftly took action against the SEE U bar in Soi Land Office 6 late last night. Pol. Col. Anek Sarathongyoo led the operation, which was executed at 11.30 p.m. on April 9. Patrol Unit 2 and his Special Operations Team intervened to address the problem. Officers arrived and took Jaryaporn, a 24-year-old bar manager whose last name was withheld, into custody. She was charged with selling alcohol without a license and causing a public disturbance with loud music after investigators confiscated receipts showing alcohol sales. A spokesperson for the police emphasized their dedication to resolving community concerns, saying, “No matter the size of the issue, if it impacts the community, we will not overlook it.” This incident highlights an ongoing effort to crack down on noise violations in the area, as it is the third bar raid in as many days. Similar complaints led to the targeting of another bar in Soi Bongkot earlier in the week. The crackdown is a component of a larger effort by the Chonburi Provincial Police, Region 2 Police, and Royal Thai Police to clean up Pattaya’s nightlife. With bar checks extending into the Soi Excite area, the objective is to address other illegal activities and guarantee adherence to noise regulations. According to The Thaiger, authorities hope that these operations will bring peace back to Pattaya residents who have long had to deal with disturbances from the city’s thriving party scene. References aseannow.com

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The argument over loud motorcycles in Pattaya is intensifying, resulting in both safety issues and restless nights

Noise Disturbance, Thailand Noise News /

Thailand’s Pattaya The roar of modified motorcycles has long filled Pattaya’s streets, and the problem still exists despite constant complaints and sporadic police crackdowns. The deafening noise from loud exhausts continues to irritate both locals and visitors, regardless of the time of day. The overuse of sirens at night is one frequent grievance. “At night, the sound of rescue trucks isn’t silent either! Since there aren’t many cars on the road at that time, it would be greatly appreciated if the noise level could be reduced. People love to use sirens needlessly, and emergencies seem to occur far too frequently. Please, enough is enough! People have expressed their frustration in a number of Pattaya neighborhoods. One resident commented, “Soi Siam Country Club—it’s very annoying,” and another said, “Also in Jomtien Beach!” It’s not just loud motorcycles that are the issue. “Quite a few motorcyclists drive on the pavement, especially the food delivery bikes,” according to some who have witnessed riders engaging in risky behavior. Skepticism persists despite sporadic police actions aimed at reducing noise pollution. “I can’t help but wonder, why don’t they apply the same zeal…?” after reading the article and noticing that the police are actively cracking down on noisy vehicles (although, in my experience, they seem more focused on fining tourists for not wearing helmets). Many modified motorcycles have exhaust noise levels well above the 95 dB legal limit in Thailand. “I have taken pictures… 140 dB is stated in the exhaust pipe specs on the internet. Why are they permitted to be sold or imported here? It’s not a new problem. They have been doing this for years. One comment said bluntly, “The louder the pipe, the lower the IQ.” Another resident wrote, “It’s always been a problem, and I’m in the firing line,” obviously frustrated. But others wonder why Pattaya is even a place where noise is an issue: “WHO the heck is sleeping in PATTAYA?” Beyond noise, concerns about safety have also been raised. “Some Thai motorcycles have no rearview mirrors, no license plates, noisy exhausts. They don’t wear helmets, there are sometimes 3 or 4 of them on one bike, and sometimes they’re drunk.” Others pointed out specific problem areas: “Jomtien Thappraya 10, every hour… never any police.” Comparisons have also been drawn between Thailand and other nations. “In civilized countries, there are noise ordinances.” Meanwhile, some joke about local superstitions: “And no backlights, in case ghosts follow them. It’s true!”   Of course, motorcycles aren’t the only noisy vehicles. Additionally, some locals complained about promotional trucks, asking, “And what about the speaker trucks?” The frustration is not universal. One retorted mockingly, “After reading these comments, I need a loud exhaust.” What a group of whiners. Others said, “Loud pipes save lives,” in support of the practice. One advocate clarified, “They do, in fact. Although it can be annoying at times, those decibels make it easier to hear them approaching, which is very helpful in a place like Thailand. However, detractors contend that responsible driving, not loud noises, should be the source of safety. “It saves lives to drive with a brain.” It will be difficult to strike a balance between the demands of thrill-seeking riders and the welfare of Pattaya’s citizens as the city grows. Some people enjoy the hectic energy of the city, while others simply desire some quiet time. References https://www.pattayamail.com/

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Using a Moving Microphone in Testing STC for Material Sound Insulation

Material Sound Insulation, STC /

Acoustic Laboratory Thailand (ALT) uses a Moving Microphone to test Airborne Sound Insulation (STC, Rw) to achieve the highest level of accuracy in acoustic testing. Measuring the Sound Transmission Class (STC) is a crucial process for evaluating the sound insulation performance of materials and structures according to ASTM E90 and ISO 10140-2 standards. Typically, STC measurements are conducted using a measurement microphone that is fixed in a stationary position. However, in some cases, the Moving Microphone technique can enhance accuracy and effectively reduce measurement deviations. What is Moving Microphone? A Moving Microphone is a technique where the microphone moves during sound measurement to reduce the effects of sound wave interference (standing waves) and to achieve a more consistent average sound level. Typically, the movement of the microphone follows these patterns: • Linear Motion – Moves in a straight line within the receiving room.• Circular Motion – Rotates in a circular path to collect data from multiple directions.• Random Motion – Moves randomly to reduce point-specific sound reflections. ASTM E90 Advantages of Using a Moving Microphone in STC Measurement✅ Reduces the Impact of Standing Waves – Minimizes errors caused by standing waves that can distort measurements.✅ Increases Accuracy of Average Sound Levels – Improves the accuracy and consistency of sound insulation calculations.✅ Complies with International Testing Standards – Many standards, such as ASTM and ISO, allow the use of the Moving Microphone technique to enhance measurement results. Ensure the highest quality standards with us! Customers using our services will be taken care of with top-level standards, along with a pre-test to check for sound leakage and installation flaws using an Acoustic Camera for even more accurate results!

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Two people are wounded in gunfire as a Phuket noise dispute degenerates into violence

Noise Disturbance, Thailand Noise News, Uncategorized /

After a gun was fired during a scuffle, a noise complaint at a Phuket Town rental property descended into violence, injuring both the landlord and the tenant. The incident, which happened yesterday, December 12, brought the two parties’ ongoing tensions to light. Around 5:00 p.m. yesterday, December 12, Phuket City police arrived at the scene of the disturbance on Phatthanakan Soi 2. The injured landlord and tenant were found at the scene by emergency personnel from Vachira Phuket Hospital and the Phuket Kusoldharm Foundation. The tenant, Phanupong Sae-Tae, also known as Bank, was shot in the left leg, and the landlord, Soros Chitchiew, 41, was wounded in the right eye socket. After receiving emergency medical attention, both victims were taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital for additional care. According to Soros, the fight started when he and his spouse went to Room 5 to resolve complaints about loud noises made at night. He pointed out that Phanupong had repeatedly been asked to leave the property due to his threatening behavior in the past. References https://thethaiger.com

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Airports of Thailand (AoT) plans to pay 12 billion baht to residents who have been impacted by noise pollution

Noise Disturbance, Thailand Noise News /

Airports of Thailand (AoT) will compensate residents who were harmed by noise pollution from the third and newest runway at Suvarnabhumi Airport with 12 billion baht. Several agencies, including the AoT, the Transport Ministry, and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, discussed the issue on Monday in response to residents’ questions about the compensation they sought for the noise made by planes using the recently opened runway at the country’s main airport. According to the law, a decision was made about the most reasonable rate, said Kittiphon Ruayfuphan, deputy spokesman for the Transport Ministry. Noise-affected residents fall into a number of categories. Included are residents with problematic land ownership, those who are legally entitled to compensation, and those who are technically ineligible for any form of financial aid. When the rate is determined, residents who fulfill the payout requirements will receive their money, Mr. Kittiphon said. Those with problematic land ownership will receive assistance in organizing their documentation so they can be eligible for compensation. Mr. Kittiphon said that after the Pollution Control Department conducts an evaluation and confirms that they are in fact affected by the noise pollution, residents who live close to the third runway but do not own the residential property they occupy might be eligible for compensation. Surajit Phongsingwitthaya, the chairman of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) council, claims that residents complained to the BMA about the noise issue. Following the filing of the complaints, the BMA asked the Transport Ministry and the AoT for updates on the issue’s resolution. The BMA is acting as a go-between to give residents who haven’t applied for compensation yet information on how to do so. Even though the petitions must be carefully vetted for fairness, Mr. Surajit said the authorities were evaluating them more rapidly. The first round of compensation should be available to residents early next year, according to the council chairman. The third runway, which is four kilometers long and sixty meters wide, was built parallel to the first runway on the western side of Suvarnabhumi Airport. It will primarily be used for planes landing at the airport and can now handle 94 planes per hour, up from the previous 68. References https://www.bangkokpost.com

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Noise Barrier

Noise Barrier /

  This article discusses Noise Barrier and covers the following key topics: Types of noise barriers Standards and testing of noise barriers Design principles for noise barriers It emphasizes noise pollution as a major issue in urban development, especially near highways, bridges, and railways. The article highlights collaboration between government, academia, and private sectors to develop effective noise barrier standards, using suitable materials, including agricultural and recycled options. Types of Noise Barriers 1. Reflective BarriersThese barriers function by reflecting sound away from protected areas. They are typically made from smooth materials such as fiber-reinforced cement, metals, or composite plastics, which are effective in sound reflection. Illustration from IAC Acoustics Example of using a reflective wallIllustration from the Department of Highways 2. Absorptive BarriersThese barriers are designed to reduce sound reflection by using sound-absorbing materials, such as fiber-based or porous panels. They are ideal for areas with significant sound reflection, such as urban environments or locations with reflective surfaces. Example of using sound-absorbing wallsIllustration from the Department of Highways 3. Combination BarriersThese barriers combine the properties of both reflective and absorptive barriers, allowing them to both block and absorb sound. This dual functionality makes them effective in a variety of environments where both sound reduction and absorption are needed. Illustration from IAC Acoustics Design an effective noise barrier Key factors include the height and length of the wall, tailored to the sound source and the area to be protected. In projects like Thailand’s Highway 9, acoustic simulations are conducted before installation to predict how much noise reduction (in decibels) the barrier will provide under real-world conditions. This ensures the barrier’s effectiveness before actual deployment. Example image of a noise barrier on a highway in Europe Example image of a sound barrier of a train in Singapore Source: https://www.geonoise.com/noise-barriers-for-lta-in-singapore/ Image of a sound barrier design in Taiwan that prevents birds from flying into passing vehicles. Source: https://www.geonoise.com/taiwan-highway-to-get-noise-barrier-to-protect-birds/ Example images of in-situ testing of a barrier wall according to ISO 10847 and acoustic simulation. For walls that are installed at the actual site or simulate outdoor installation, they can also be tested for acoustic properties, that is, by measuring the Sound Insertion Loss (SIL) value using the ISO 10847 test standard to see the sound attenuation when passing through the wall as shown in the image above. Currently, there is also technology to test the sound absorption value in-situ or testing in a format where a real wall has been installed at the site using the Local Plan Wave method that uses an Array microphone to scan the surface of the material to measure the sound wave absorption value. Image of sound barrier test using SONOCAT instrumentPeeters, F., Peeters, B., & Wijnant, Y. (2016). Determination of Acoustic Properties of Noise Barriers Soundproof wall testing standards Noise barriers can be tested in laboratories according to standards like ISO 10140-2, EN1793, or ASTM E90, measuring Sound Transmission Loss (STL) across frequencies (e.g., 125Hz to 4000Hz). The results are processed into a rating that indicates the material’s soundproofing performance. In Thailand, testing can be done at ALT Acoustic Laboratory Thailand. But when using sound barriers in real environments, one important thing to consider when evaluating how much sound a wall can block is testing the Sound Insertion Loss (SIL) value using the ISO 10847 test standard. The principle is to measure the difference between with and without a wall. The test standard specifies the distance of the microphone installation and the reference microphone point, as well as the selection of the sound source. Illustration from Acoustic Laboratory Thailand Co., Ltd. In addition, some types of walls that are designed to absorb sound waves or absorb sound, Sound absorption, can also be tested for these values ​​in the laboratory, which will use the ISO354 or ISO11654 or ASTM E423 test standards, using a reverberation chamber or echo chamber in the test, which will be tested as the coefficient of sound absorption NRC and the Sound absorption value at each frequency. Soundproof wall design principles To effectively protect against noise, we need to take the following important steps: 1. Assess the noise situationWe need to know the noise level that needs protection by measuring the noise level in the affected area or checking from noise complaints from nearby communities. This assessment will help us understand the nature of the problem and clearly define the scope of the sound barrier wall design. 2. Choose the right sound barrier materialsThe selection of materials used to build sound barriers is the key. Sound barrier materials can be divided into 2 main types: Reflective Materials: Help reflect sound back to the direction of the sound source, reducing the spread of sound to areas that need silence. Absorptive Materials: Reduce the sound that hits the wall by absorbing sound to reduce echoes and reverberations. Alternative Materials can also be considered with special properties, such as composite materials or materials that have been tested in the laboratory for acoustic properties or Acoustic Engineering calculations to maximize the sound barrier efficiency. 3. Using Mathematical Modeling (SoundPLAN Modeling)SoundPLAN is a sound simulation tool that is widely used in many countries, including in Thailand. Using SoundPLAN helps to design sound barriers accurately by analyzing data and creating mathematical models that simulate real situations, using calculations according to the ISO 9613-2 standard. This software is used by leading organizations such as: Department of Highways and Expressway Authority of Thailand: for the design and installation of sound barriers in expressway and highway projects Large construction companies: for construction projects that require noise reduction from construction projects Environmental consulting firms: for Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Academic institutions and research: for the research and development of new soundproofing technologies Designing with SoundPLAN allows you to see the results of sound barriers before actual construction, allowing us to improve and customize the design for maximum efficiency, meeting both efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The modeling process involves various types of sound analysis. Result Analysis After the simulation, SoundPLAN generates noise maps and graphs

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Residents of Pattaya call for action against boisterous celebrations at beer bars

Noisy neighbour, Thailand Noise News /

Thailand’s Pattaya On October 26, locals in the Soi Buakhao neighborhood of South Pattaya expressed their annoyance at a beer bar that has been causing chaos by celebrating late into the night with loud horn blasts. For more than two weeks, residents have been having trouble sleeping because of the noise, which keeps them awake at night. A resident who went by the pseudonym “Orn” shared surveillance footage of the noise and provided an explanation of the circumstances. According to her, the recently opened bar, which has been open for about a month, signals drinking celebrations for patrons with air horns rather than the more conventional bells. Residents of nearby apartments have been startled by the loud blasts, and some have complained or even moved out as a result of the constant noise. Tenants have also complained to the owner of the adjacent apartments about the disruptions. The bar has not responded or changed despite prior conversations with the management and reports to the Pattaya Police Station to address the problem. An additional local, “Dao” (a pseudonym), who has been there for a month, recounted how the truck-horn-like sound startled her to wakefulness. Due to her early work commitments, she stressed the value of a quiet atmosphere at night and recommended that the bar switch from horns to a bell system, which is what other establishments typically do. Local authorities, such as the Banglamung District Office and the Pattaya Police, have been urged by the community to look into and address the persistent noise problem. References https://www.kaodedonline.com

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