Expert acoustic analysis and compliance
Lloyd’s Register Advisory Services offers a unique, full-scale solution to measure underwater radiated noise using a permanent acoustic array on the Eastern coast of Canada, supporting shipowners in understanding vessel performance and progressing towards LR URN notation.
Underwater radiated noise is increasingly recognised as a critical environmental challenge in shipping. For operators, it presents both a compliance risk and a commercial opportunity.
An Underwater Radiated Noise (URN) notation is a voluntary classification that certifies a ship meets specific, quiet-running standards. Its primary benefits include protecting marine ecosystems, unlocking port fee discounts, and enhancing crew wellbeing.
LR provides a structured approach to URN measurement:
- Full-scale measurement at sea for vessels calling at Halifax, Nova Scotia
- Use of permanent acoustic array systems located in the harbour approach so there is no disruption to normal vessel operation
- Application of multiple validated methodologies to improve understanding of noise profiles
This unique capability allows for consistent, repeatable and high-quality measurement in a real operating environment and provides an independent verification of performance, supporting both external reporting and stakeholder confidence.
This notation will not only help shipowners reduce underwater noise in sensitive environments, but also demonstrate commitment to environmentally responsible operations, with the added potential benefit of port fee incentives.
Main advantages of holding a URN notation for shipping operators
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Environmental Protection and Compliance -
Economic and Operational Benefits -
Onboard Health and Wellbeing
Protecting Marine Life: Excessive shipping noise interferes with the ability of marine mammals (like whales and dolphins) to communicate, navigate, and hunt. A URN notation helps mitigate these negative impacts.
Regulatory Preparation: With bodies like International Maritime Organization (IMO) continuously pushing updated noise reduction guidelines, holding a notation puts your vessel ahead of evolving environmental regulations.
Access to Sensitive Areas: Some ecologically sensitive regions and ports are beginning to restrict access to only those vessels that can prove compliance with stringent noise-level standards.
Port and Canal Incentives: Some forward-thinking ports and authorities offer financial incentives, such as discounted port fees or dues, to operators of acoustically certified "quiet" ships.
Synergy with Fuel Efficiency: Though an optimised propeller for energy efficiency is often not the most quiet propeller, there is a strong, proven synergy between URN reduction and energy efficiency for some technologies, for example, installing air lubrication systems and some wake field improvement devices.
Vibration Reduction: Technologies implemented to achieve quiet underwater profiles (like isolating vibrating machinery and air lubrication systems) also decrease airborne sound and structural vibration inside the ship.
Crew and Passenger Comfort: Reduced interior vibration and lower noise levels improve sleep quality, reduce fatigue, and significantly enhance the overall health and wellbeing of crew members and passengers
Protecting Marine Life: Excessive shipping noise interferes with the ability of marine mammals (like whales and dolphins) to communicate, navigate, and hunt. A URN notation helps mitigate these negative impacts.
Regulatory Preparation: With bodies like International Maritime Organization (IMO) continuously pushing updated noise reduction guidelines, holding a notation puts your vessel ahead of evolving environmental regulations.
Access to Sensitive Areas: Some ecologically sensitive regions and ports are beginning to restrict access to only those vessels that can prove compliance with stringent noise-level standards.
Port and Canal Incentives: Some forward-thinking ports and authorities offer financial incentives, such as discounted port fees or dues, to operators of acoustically certified "quiet" ships.
Synergy with Fuel Efficiency: Though an optimised propeller for energy efficiency is often not the most quiet propeller, there is a strong, proven synergy between URN reduction and energy efficiency for some technologies, for example, installing air lubrication systems and some wake field improvement devices.
Vibration Reduction: Technologies implemented to achieve quiet underwater profiles (like isolating vibrating machinery and air lubrication systems) also decrease airborne sound and structural vibration inside the ship.
Crew and Passenger Comfort: Reduced interior vibration and lower noise levels improve sleep quality, reduce fatigue, and significantly enhance the overall health and wellbeing of crew members and passengers
How it works
- Contact LR upfront for an agreement to measure URN
- Vessel transits through Halifax approach under normal operating conditions
- Acoustic data is captured using the fixed array
- Measurement is conducted using defined methodologies
- Data is analysed to assess noise characteristics
- Results are structured into a clear performance output
- Optional next step: progression towards URN notation
The process is designed to be low disruption and aligned with existing operations.
What we deliver
- Verified measurement of underwater radiated noise
- Clear assessment of vessel noise performance
- Insight into factors influencing acoustic signature
- Guidance to support potential noise reduction measures
- Support towards achieving URN notation (where applicable)
In addition, clients can use results to support:
- Environmental reporting and ESG disclosure
- Engagement with ports, regulators and stakeholders
- Internal decision-making on efficiency improvements and retrofits
Who is this service for?
- Scientific Research Vessels: Ships designed for marine biology and oceanography.
- Expedition Cruise Ships: Passenger vessels designed to travel through ecologically sensitive areas.
- Merchant & Cargo Vessels: Including crude oil tankers (e.g., Aframax tankers) and large container ships.
- Fishing Vessels: Commercial trawlers and research-oriented fishing boats.
Why LR Advisory?
Unique capability in Halifax, Nova Scotia
Access to a permanent acoustic array enables consistent, repeatable full-scale measurement in a controlled location.
Real-world measurement
Data is captured in operational conditions, providing more representative insight than model-based approaches alone.
Integrated Advisory and Classification pathway
LR combines technical advisory expertise with classification capability, supporting clients from measurement through to URN notation.
Balanced commercial and environmental focus
Our approach aligns environmental performance with operational considerations, including efficiency, maintenance and onboard wellbeing.
Trusted technical expertise
LR’s capability underpins delivery, ensuring robust methodologies and credible outputs.
