Project Challenge

This 420㎡ small food cold chain distribution depot in Winnipeg, Canada includes a chilled sorting area, packing zone and small equipment room. Constant-running refrigeration units, conveyor belts and ventilation systems generate steady broadband noise. The noise interferes with staff communication and picking accuracy, and long-term exposure risks violating local occupational health standards. The cold, high-humidity environment requires acoustic materials that are moisture-resistant, non-absorbent and dimensionally stable at low temperatures.

Our Solution

We fitted the entire depot ceiling with high-density inorganic fiberglass acoustic ceiling tiles, NRC 0.90–0.95, inherent ASTM E84 Class A fire resistance. The interconnected porous structure efficiently absorbs full-spectrum reflected noise from equipment and airflow, while the dense hardened surface resists moisture absorption and maintains dimensional stability in cold high-humidity environments — critical for cold chain facilities. Around the high-noise refrigeration unit perimeter, we added modular damping industrial sound barriers with a single-layer STC rating of up to 27dB, blocking direct equipment noise propagation to staff work zones. The modular design supports repositioning as layout changes.

All materials are non-particulate and fiber-shedding free, meeting food handling facility hygiene requirements. The system holds stable performance even in fluctuating cold temperatures.

Project Results

Ambient noise in the main sorting area dropped by an estimated 41%, falling within acceptable limits for local occupational health standards. Staff reported less end-of-shift fatigue and much clearer verbal communication during order picking. Order picking accuracy also showed a measurable improvement following the upgrade, thanks to reduced noise distraction.