Normally, in areas with noise pollution, the sources of pollution must be identified by the authorities and taken the necessary measures, typically consisting in installing sound-absorbing panels along the highways, railways and fixed sources of noise. Traffic noise is efficiently reduced by mounting such obstacles, generally referred to as noise barriers.

Sound-absorbing panels are elements of the noise barriers. A barrier is obtained by combining several panels. These panels are designed according to the location where they are going to be installed, because they reach different performances depending on the traffic conditions and their location. The modifications that can be made according to these conditions involve certain elements, to obtain the maximum performance. The performance of a sound-absorbing Westminster fencing panel is largely given by the thickness and type of material used, but he height of the panel is also important.

Sound barriers must be installed as close as possible to the source of the noise or to those affected by it. Roadside barriers must be continuous and extend over long distances to be effective. Ideally, sound barriers would be higher than an ordinary fence.

Sound absorbing panels are made of steel, aluminum, concrete, reinforced concrete, wood fiber concrete, PVC, galvanized sheet (ceramic or enameled), wood covered with galvanized metal layers, brick or plastic.