Standard Test Method for Field Measurement of Tapping Machine Impact Sound Transmission Through Floor-Ceiling Assemblies and Associated Support Structures

1.1 This test method covers the measurement of the transmission of impact sound generated by a standard tapping machine through floor-ceiling assemblies and associated supporting structures in field situations.

1.2 Measurements may be conducted on all types of floor-ceiling assemblies, including those with floating-floor or suspended ceiling elements, or both, and floor-ceiling assemblies surfaced with any type of floor-surfacing or floor-covering materials.

1.3 This test method further prescribes:

1.3.1 A uniform procedure for reporting test data, that is, the normalized one-third octave band sound pressure levels generated in the receiving room by the operation of the standard tapping machine on the floor-ceiling assembly.

1.3.2 The use of a single-figure classification rating, "Field Impact Insulation Class, FIIC" that can be used by architects, builders, and specification and code authorities for acoustical evaluation purposes in completed buildings. The FIIC is obtained by matching a standard reference contour to the plotted normalized one-third octave band sound pressure levels at each test frequency obtained in accordance with this test method. For details regarding the derivation and significance of the FIIC, see Classification E 989.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.