Noise protection measures on military training facilities of the German Bundeswehr.

Abstract

More than a decade ago it was believed that the same noise abatement measures that were established for traffic or industrial noise would also work for shooting noise in the vicinity of rifle ranges. In the early 80’s MoD Bonn began to study and to enhance new abatement facilities with respect to the special requirements for shooting noise. The studies apply to constructions, now regarded as ‘‘state of the art’’ so far as Germany is concerned. This report discusses the first constructions to reduce muzzle blast and projectile shock (sonic boom) by enclosing the ranges with sound absorbing ceilings and walls. Furthermore, special measures were developed to reduce sound reflection at structures on or near the ranges. A selected combination of such measures is now successful in protecting a residential area in a certain direction. Some examples of noise reduced shooting ranges in Germany are introduced including some remarks on how to use the structural principles on American-style training facilities in Germany. MoD will continue the support of investigations on noise abatement measures for small arms. There are still 40 military facilities in Germany that need noise abatement measures by law. The technical concept for the German Bundeswehr will be introduced.