ASTM E1503-97
(Test Method)Standard Test Method for Conducting Outdoor Sound Measurements Using a Digital Statistical Analysis System
Standard Test Method for Conducting Outdoor Sound Measurements Using a Digital Statistical Analysis System
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the measurement of outdoor sound levels at specific locations using a digital statistical analyzer and a formal measurement plan.
1.1.1 This test method provides basic requirements for obtaining either a single set of data or multiple sets of related data. However, because there are numerous circumstances and varied objectives requiring multiple sets of data, the test method does not address planning of the measurement program.
1.2 The use of results of measurements performed using this test method include, but are not limited to, the following:
1.2.1 To characterize the acoustical environment of a site,
1.2.2 To characterize the sound emissions of a specific sound source which exhibits a temporal variation in sound output, and
1.2.3 To monitor the effectiveness of a noise impact mitigation plan.
1.3 This test method is intended to be used in conjunction with a measurement plan that references this test method. Changes or additions to the provisions of this test method should be clearly stated in the plan.
1.3.1 In the event it is necessary, for example, because of time constraints, to conduct measurements without first formalizing a plan, this test method can be used if an operator/observer whose qualifications are satisfactory to both the performing organization and the client is present at all times during the measurements and who complies, to the extent possible, with all the applicable requirements of this test method, including record keeping.
1.4 The data obtained using this test method enable comparison of statistical sound level data with appropriate criteria.
1.4.1 The data obtained with this test method can be used in the derivation of loudness levels provided the necessary requirements regarding sample duration and signal bandwidth are observed in collecting the data. It is recommended that a specialist in the area of loudness evaluation be consulted in preparing a plan for measurements intended to produce data which will be used for this purpose.
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are provided for information only.
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, 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.
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Designation: E 1503 – 97
Standard Test Method for
Conducting Outdoor Sound Measurements Using a Digital
Statistical Analysis System
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E 1503; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
INTRODUCTION
This is one of a series of standards on the measurement and evaluation of community noise. Others
in the series include Guide E 1014 which covers manual measurement, using a simple meter, and
analysis of the resulting data, Guide E 1779, which covers preparation of a measurement plan for
conducting outdoor sound measurements, and Guide E 1780, which covers measurement of sound
received from a nearby fixed source. Also, under consideration or in preparation as supporting
document, is a draft standard guide for determining the validity and significance of data obtained using
this test method.
1. Scope during the measurements and who complies, to the extent
possible, with all the applicable requirements of this test
1.1 This test method covers the measurement of outdoor
method, including record keeping.
sound levels at specific locations using a digital statistical
1.4 The data obtained using this test method enable com-
analyzer and a formal measurement plan.
parison of statistical sound level data with appropriate criteria.
1.1.1 This test method provides basic requirements for
1.4.1 The data obtained with this test method can be used in
obtaining either a single set of data or multiple sets of related
the derivation of loudness levels provided the necessary
data. However, because there are numerous circumstances and
requirements regarding sample duration and signal bandwidth
varied objectives requiring multiple sets of data, the test
are observed in collecting the data. It is recommended that a
method does not address planning of the measurement pro-
specialist in the area of loudness evaluation be consulted in
gram.
preparing a plan for measurements intended to produce data
1.2 The use of results of measurements performed using this
which will be used for this purpose.
test method include, but are not limited to, the following:
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the
1.2.1 To characterize the acoustical environment of a site,
standard. The values given in parentheses are provided for
1.2.2 To characterize the sound emissions of a specific
information only.
sound source which exhibits a temporal variation in sound
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
output, and
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
1.2.3 To monitor the effectiveness of a noise impact miti-
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
gation plan.
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
1.3 This test method is intended to be used in conjunction
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
with a measurement plan that references this test method.
Changes or additions to the provisions of this test method
2. Referenced Documents
should be clearly stated in the plan.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.3.1 In the event it is necessary, for example, because of
C 634 Terminology Relating to Environmental Acoustics
time constraints, to conduct measurements without first for-
E 1014 Guide for Measurement of Outdoor A-Weighted
malizing a plan, this test method can be used if an operator/
Sound Levels
observer whose qualifications are satisfactory to both the
E 1779 Guide for Preparing a Measurement Plan for Con-
performing organization and the client is present at all times
ducting Outdoor Sound Measurement
E 1780 Guide for Measuring Outdoor Sound Received from
a Nearby Fixed Source
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E-33 on
2.2 ANSI Standards:
Environmental Acoustics and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E33.09 on
Community Noise.
Current edition approved Sept. 10, 1997. Published June 1998. Originally
published as E 1503–92. Last previous edition E 1503–92. Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 04.06.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.
E 1503
S1.4 Specification for Sound Level Meters 3.2.8.1 Discussion—These requirements address, for ex-
S1.11 Octave-Band and Fractional Octave-Band Analog and ample, methods of selecting measurement times and locations,
Digital Filters, Specifications for number and length of measurement sets, and directions on
S1.13 Methods for the Measurement of Sound Pressure actions to be taken in case of major changes in environment
Levels during a measurement session. Such a plan is highly recom-
S1.40 Specification for Acoustical (Microphone) Cali- mended for use in conjunction with this test method.
brators 3.2.9 measurement set— set of acoustical and related data,
and analysis results, obtained at a single measurement location
3. Terminology
during a specific time period.
3.1 For definitions of terms used in this test method see 3.2.9.1 Discussion—The time period for a measurement set
is flexible but should be based on the purpose of the measure-
Terminology C 634.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard: ment and specified in the measurement plan. If the purpose of
the measurements is to document the sound for a specific
3.2.1 barrier—any obstacle, in the lines of sight between
the microphone and potential sound sources, that could block, source operating condition or propagation condition, a mea-
surement set should not extend beyond the time period in
or interfere with, the direct passage of sound from potential
which conditions affecting sound generation or propagation
sound sources to a receiver or a measurement location.
remain reasonably constant.
3.2.2 digital statistical sound analysis system— combina-
3.2.10 noise floor—See self-noise.
tion of a sound level meter, either analog or digital, interfaced
with a digital data storage device, and a digital statistical 3.2.11 percentile exceedance levels— measured level ex-
ceeded a specific percent of the time in a measurement set.
analyzer, for sampling environmental sound levels over a
specified timed interval. 3.2.12 self-noise—extraneous signal components, not part
of the sound field to be measured, generated, or induced in a
3.2.2.1 Discussion—For the purposes of this test method, a
generic analyzer having the necessary features for the intended measurement system.
3.2.12.1 Discussion—The magnitude of the extraneous
measurement and meeting the requirements of ANSI S1.4
(1983), and ANSI S1.11 (1985), is assumed. component sets a lower limit, or floor, below which accurate
measurements cannot be made. See the definition of back-
3.2.3 dummy microphone— microphone cartridge substitute
which has electrical characteristics identical to a functional ground noise in Terminology C 634.
3.2.13 statistics of sound level—results of statistical analy-
microphone, but which has essentially no sensitivity to incident
acoustic energy. sis, performed simultaneously with the measurement or imme-
diately following measurement of sound level, on the data in a
3.2.3.1 Discussion—Used instead of a functional micro-
phone when evaluating the internal noise of an acoustic measurement set. Three representative types of sound-level
statistics that may be derived from either frequency weighted
measuring system.
3.2.4 equivalent sound level, L —obtained by integrating or un-weighted (flat) sound levels, or from fractional octave
eq
bands of sound are the equivalent sound level (see 3.2.4)
A-weighted sound level measured over a specific period of
percentile exceedance levels (see 3.2.11) and maximum and
time, or in the case of un-weighted (flat) sound pressure and
minimum sound levels occurring during a measurement set.
fractional octave bands, equivalent sound pressure level. See
the definition of average sound pressure level in Terminology
4. Significance and Use
C 634.
4.1 This test method deals with methods and techniques
3.2.5 exceedance level—See 3.2.11.
which are well defined and which are understood by a trained
3.2.6 interference—any activity or event, occurring near the
acoustical professional. This test method has been prepared to
measurement location, that could produce anomalous measure-
provide a standard methodology which, when followed, will
ment results, or data which are not representative in the context
produce results which are consistent with requirements of
of the measurement objectives.
government and industry, and which can be validated using
3.2.6.1 Discussion—Examples of interference are air turbu-
information gathered and documented in the course of the
lence generated by the wind at, or near the microphone, people
measurement program.
or animals making sounds in the vicinity of the microphone, or
4.2 There are numerous situations for which outdoor sound
the presence of surfaces which alter the normal sound propa-
level data are required. These include, but are not limited to the
gation path. See Section 7 for additional details and precau-
following:
tions.
4.2.1 Documentation of sound levels before the introduction
3.2.7 impulse sound—brief, intrusive sound, such as that
of a new sound source as a reference for assessment of the
associated with a tire blowout, operation of a power press, the
noise impact caused by a proposed facility and associated
discharge of a firearm, or a shout. (See ANSI S1.13.)
activities,
3.2.8 measurement plan—external document covering re-
4.2.2 Comparison of sound levels with and without a
quirements unique and specific to the objectives of the mea-
specific source (for example, assessment of the impact of an
surement.
existing source), and
4.2.3 Comparison of sound levels with criteria or regulatory
limits (for example, indication of exceedance of criteria or
Available from American National Standards Institute, 11 W. 42nd St., 13th
Floor, New York, NY 10036. non-compliance with laws).
E 1503
4.3 This test method provides a means for operating a sound progress are talking, walking on gravel, leaves, or twigs, use of
analysis system which incorporates digital circuits for process- radio-telephones (electromagnetic interference), or operating
ing and storing sound level data, documenting conditions under vehicle engines.
which the measurements were performed, and reporting the
5.2 Effects of Wind:
results.
5.2.1 Interaction of the wind with the microphone may
4.4 This test method provides the user with information to
influence the results of sound level measurements even with a
(1) perform and document statistical analysis performed during
windscreen in place. Even for wind speeds below 20 km/h (12
measurement of outdoor sound level over specific time periods
mph) special care must be used if sound levels are very low or
at specified places, and (2) make and document the physical
if measuring fractional band, C-weighted, or flat frequency-
observations necessary to qualify the measurements.
weighted levels. Higher wind speeds can be tolerated for
4.5 This test method can be used by individuals, regulatory
high-sound levels or if a windscreen designed for high-wind
agencies, or others as a measurement method to collect
speeds is used. Manufacturer’s instructions for operation in
acoustical data for many common situations. The data are
wind should be followed. Appropriate guidelines for measure-
collected in a format determined by the capabilities of the
ments in wind are included in Guide E 1779.
equipment, equipment operational options selected, and by
5.2.2 If maximum wind speeds are not addressed in the
post-processing options available. An example would be tables
measurement plan, manufacturer’s instructions shall be fol-
of statistical sound levels.
lowed with respect to analyzer limitations under windy condi-
4.6 The user is cautioned that there are many factors that
tions.
can strongly influence the results obtained during measurement
5.3 Effects of Moisture and High Humidity:
of outdoor sound levels and that this test method is not
5.3.1 Measurable precipitation almost always influences
intended to supplant the experience and judgment of experts in
outdoor sound levels. For example, tires rolling on a paved
the field of acoustics. This test method is intended to facilitate
surface produce higher sound levels when the pavement is wet.
communication between sound measurement professionals and
Fallen snow may affect the propagation of sound. Data
individuals who are responsible for administering regulations,
obtained under such conditions should be retained but carefully
or are otherwise involved in decisions involving sound mea-
marked so that its use in subsequent analysis is used advisedly.
surements. Measurements should be performed only under the
direction of people who are experienced in the measurement 5.3.2 High relative humidity, generally over 90 %, can
influence certain preamplifiers and microphones, especially
and analysis of outdoor sound, and who are thoroughly familiar
with the use of the equipment and techniques involved. air-condenser microphones. Microphone manufacturer’s in-
structions should be followed under high-humidity conditions.
4.7 This test method is only a measurement procedure and,
as such, does not address the methods of comparison of the 5.4 In situations involving impulse sound events, the user
acquired data with specific criteria. No procedures are provided should be aware that the fast and slow exponential time
within this test method for estimating the influences of two or
weighting typically used to measure continuous sound do not
more simultaneously measured sounds. This test method can
appropriately quantify impulsive sound. To obtain accurate
be used, with an appropriate plan, in establishing compliance
measurement of impulsive sounds, other methods (for ex-
when the measured data are below a specified limit, or
ample, see ANSI S1.13) shall be used in conjunction with this
conversely, establishing noncompliance when any of the data
test method. The presence of impulsive sounds shall be noted
are above a specified limit.
in the report. Any measurements in which data other than a
narrative description of the impulse(s) are obtained shall
5. Interferences
require a measurement plan which prescribes the sampling
rate, system response, and other pertinent guidelines. The plan
5.1 Measurements intended to provide detailed spectral and
should also include reference to standards that provide guid-
temporal sound level data are subject t
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