Rating low levels of ambient noise in performing arts facilities
01 Jan 2013-
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors compared and discussed the performance of various indoor noise rating metrics, calculated from background noise level data measured in existing performing arts facilities, and found that these metrics do not best correlate to human perceptions of annoyance and distraction in typical office environments.
Abstract: Previous studies have indicated that common indoor noise rating metrics, such as Noise Criteria NC and Room Criteria RC, do not best correlate to human perceptions of annoyance and distraction in typical office environments. Based on investigations conducted at the University of Nebraska using noise levels between 30 – 60 dBA, the author has proposed that an effective indoor noise rating method should begin with a rating of level (either dBA or sones), then an assessment of spectral quality, tones, and fluctuations. How well would such a system work at very low levels of ambient noise, though, as found in performing arts facilities? This paper compares and discusses the performance of assorted indoor noise rating metrics, calculated from background noise level data measured in existing performing arts facilities.
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TL;DR: In this paper, the ADA Accessibility Guidelines were updated to include guidelines for classroom acoustics in the accessibility guidelines the Board maintains under the ADA, and the International Codes Council for reference in the International Building Code adopted by many states and local jurisdictions, making it enforceable through the local permitting and inspections process.
Abstract: In 1997, the parent of a child with a hearing loss petitioned the U.S. Access Board to include guidelines for classroom acoustics in the accessibility guidelines the Board maintains under the ADA. The Board agreed that poor listening conditions in schools could be a barrier to the education of children with hearing impairments and other disabilities and arranged to collaborate with ASA and other stakeholders on an acoustical standard for classrooms. The Board will submit the completed standard to the International Codes Council for reference in the International Building Code adopted by many states and local jurisdictions, making it enforceable through the local permitting and inspections process. Reference in the ADA Accessibility Guidelines may follow in its next review cycle in 2005. Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) required under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) may also reference the new standard.
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TL;DR: In this paper, the authors proposed the balanced noise-criterion (NCB) curves, which are based on the American National Standard (four-band) definition for speech interference level (SIL).
Abstract: The widely used noise‐criterion (NC) curves are not based on the American National Standard (four‐band) definition for speech‐interference level (SIL) and do not extend down to the 315‐ and 16‐Hz octave bands In addition, experience has shown that the procedure originally recommended for using the curves to determine whether a measured noise in a space is acceptable to occupants should be replaced The premises underlying the new balanced noise‐criterion (NCB) curves are: (1) Use the American National Standard SIL as the rating number for each curve; (2) achieve spectral balance by making equal the calculated octave‐band loudnesses for those bands with midfrequencies between 16 and 8000 Hz that contain the same number of critical bands—otherwise, weight downward the loudnesses in proportion to the number of critical bands contained; and (3) satisfy earlier studies that the difference between the overall calculated loudness level and the SIL for each curve must not exceed approximately 24 units The NCB curves are used (1) before construction, to specify acceptable octave‐band noise levels, and (2) after construction, to rate the noise as to its effect on speech communication; as to any spectral imbalance (eg, rumble or hiss), including how many decibels of noise reduction are needed in each octave band to eliminate spectral imbalance; and as to excess low‐band levels that might cause feelable or audible structural vibrations The NCB curves have successfully predicted all cases of sizable complaints by occupants of existing building spaces accessed for this study
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