Standard Guide for Measurement of Outdoor A-Weighted Sound Levels

1.1 This guide covers the measurement of A-weighted sound levels outdoors at specified locations or along particular site boundaries, using a general purpose sound-level meter.

1.2 Three distinct types of measurement surveys are described:

1.2.1 Survey around a site boundary,

1.2.2 Survey at a specified location,

1.2.3 Survey to find the maximum sound level at a specified distance from a source.

1.3 Since outdoor sound levels almost always vary with time over a wide range, the data obtained using this guide may be presented in the form of a histogram of sound levels. The data obtained using this guide enables calculations of average or statistical sound levels for comparison with appropriate criteria.

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.