ANSI S1.13

Description / Abstract: General recommendations are given to assist in the development of noise measurement techniques that are satisfactory for use under various environmental conditions.

The measurement of sound produced by sources which radiate directly into the air is given first priority. The airborne sound pressures may be partially attributable to sound transmission along structural pathways and reradiation from solid (or fluid) bodies.

Primary consideration is given to the measurement of sound created as a by-product of the principle function of the source. The methods may also be applied to other sources which are intended to generate sound. For example, measurements may be desired of the sound pressure generated by an alarm device operating in the presence of multiple noise sources.

This standard does not consider sound pressure level measurements which are obtained for the purpose of determining the sound power radiated by a source.

Purpose. The purpose of this standard is to provide uniform guidelines for measuring and reporting sound pressure levels observed under different environmental conditions. This standard is applicable to the many different types of sound pressure level measurements commonly encountered in practice. This standard is intended to assist in the preparation of test codes for: I) determining compliance with a specification, ordinance, or acoustical criterion, and 2) obtaining information to assess the effects of noise on people or equipment.