UNIT 16

Evaluation of Airborne Sound Levels: Instantaneous

Area Monitoring Using a Sound Level Meter and an
Octave Band Analyzer

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

At the completion of Unit 16, including sufficient reading and studying of this and related
reference material, learners will be able to correctly:

• Name and identify the common instrument used for conducting instantaneous area monitoring
of airborne sound levels.
• Name, identify, and assemble the applicable calibration train that uses an electronic calibrator
for calibrating a sound level meter (SLM).
• Calibrate a sound level meter using an electronic calibrator.
• Summarize the principles of monitoring airborne sound levels using an SLM and SLM with
octave band analyzer (SLM-OBA).
• Conduct instantaneous monitoring of airborne sound levels using an SLM and an SLM-OBA.
• Record all applicable calibration and sampling data using calibration and field monitoring data
forms.

OVERVIEW

Sound waves propagate in a spherical form from the source. If sound measurements are taken
at a fixed distance in any direction from a source under free-field, nondirectional conditions (a
point source with nothing in the space to impede the sound energy), the sound pressure levels
should be the same. In addition, the greater the distance from the source, the lower the sound
pressure. Sound pressure changes abide by the inverse square law which states that as the distance
increases from the source, there is a corresponding decrease in intensity based on sound level meter
readings in decibels. For example, if sound pressure readings are taken x feet from a source, when
the distance is doubled to 2x ft, a corresponding decrease in sound pressure levels should be
observed. Accordingly, if a 100-dB reading on a sound level meter was measured at 2 ft, then a
94-dB reading should be measured at 4 ft. If we are monitoring free-field, nondirectional noise,
ideally there should be a 6-dB reduction when the distance doubles. The 6-dB reduction in sound
pressure level is the expected pressure level change under free-field, nondirectional conditions.
Since work is rarely performed under ideal conditions, sound pressure changes under actual
workplace conditions would be expected to be reduced between 4 and 6 dB in free-field
measurement activities as distances double. Sound pressure measures failing to decrease by 4 to 5

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16-2 BISESI AND KOHN’S INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE EVALUATION METHODS, SECOND EDITION

dB as the distance doubles from the source indicates that the noise is not free-field, nondirectional
noise.
External influences that are augmenting or reflecting/absorbing sound energies in those locations
must be determined. Free-field is a noise source that is located in an open area, free of barriers or
interferences. An example of an ideal free-field source would be a pole-mounted siren. Free-field
noise sources are the exception when monitoring for noise within structures. Ceilings, floors, walls,
adjacent equipment, and a wide variety of other sources will act as diffracters, absorbers, or
transmitters augmenting or reducing sound pressure levels. As a consequence, barriers will result
in sound pressure levels that do not conform with the inverse square law. Sound pressure level
contours or noise gradients would then be drawn to determine the effects of structure and contents
upon sound pressure changes within the facility.

MONITORING

The SLM and OBA are two generic types of sound monitoring instruments typically used when
assessing noise problems in the occupational setting. The SLM is an instrument used to monitor
sound pressure levels. The OBA is a special SLM for measuring pressure levels of sound within
octave frequency bands. The OBA is actually an electronic filter attached to or incorporated with
an SLM. There are a wide variety of SLMs and OBAs commercially available. These instruments
are used in the occupational environment to assist in detecting and measuring sound levels and
determining whether a noise problem exists. SLMs consist of three major components: (1) a
microphone, (2) a meter, and (3) a connection for an OBA (Figure 16.1).

Microphone

Sound Level Meter

Octave Band Filters

Figure 16.1 SLM with OBA.

EVALUATION OF HAZARDOUS AGENTS AND FACTORS 16-3

While each sound level meter is slightly different, each may have one or more frequency-
selective weighting filters or scales in addition to an unweighted filter (also called linear-scale).
Three more common scales are labeled A, B, and C, each with characteristics derived from the
equal loudness perception of pure tones by humans. The A-scale consists of modified sound pressure
levels across the frequency spectrum (20 to 20,000 Hz) which is somewhat close to human hearing
response. The A-scale is the mandated scale required for site monitoring activities. The B-scale
has limited applications, such as in sound research activities, and is no longer provided in many
newly designed SLMs. The C-scale is used for engineering and maintenance activities and partic-
ularly is recommended in measuring true impulse (blast-type) sound. Linear-scale is used in octave
band analysis and also is mandated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
regulations for the measurement of impulse sounds.
There are four types of approved SLMs commercially available that differ by their certified
accuracy. The Type “0” SLM has an accuracy of ±0 dB and is the most accurate type of SLM
available. It is predominantly used for laboratory research applications. The Type 1 SLM is an
instrument with an accuracy of ±1 dB. It is a precision unit intended for extremely accurate field
and laboratory measurements. The Type 2 SLM is a general purpose SLM with an accuracy of ±2
dB. Type 2 or better SLMs set at A-scale are mandated for use to evaluate the occupational
environment for noise. The fourth type of SLM is the Type S or special purpose SLM. It is equivalent
to the old Type 3 unit with design tolerances similar to those listed for the Type 1 unit. Type S
SLMs differ from Type 1 SLMs because these instruments are not required to have all of the
functions of the units previously listed.
While the SLM without OBA can be set at a scale (A, B, C, or linear) that represents a broad
range of frequencies, the SLM-OBA can be adjusted to specific frequencies which represent
relatively narrow octave band frequencies. The specific “center band frequencies” are 31.5, 63,
125, 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 4000, 8000, and 16,000 Hz. Each center band frequency represents an
individual range or band of frequencies. Octave-band frequencies contain progressively wider
bandwidth as the center frequency increases. For example, the center band frequency 31.5 Hz is
bounded by the lower band-edge frequency of 22.4 Hz and the upper band-edge frequency of 45
Hz; the center band frequency 63 Hz has 45 and 90 Hz as its lower and upper frequency band.
SLMs are calibrated using a known sound level generator called an acoustical calibrator set at
a specific sound pressure level (such as 104 dB) and frequency (usually 1000 Hz). The device is
simply placed over the microphone of the SLM and the meter is adjusted to the known level (Figure
16.2). It is usually necessary to check calibration of SLM at the beginning and end of noise survey.
When performing the field survey, it is important to correctly hold the SLM. The proper position
to hold the SLM is dependent upon the specific instrument to be used or specific application. For
example, some instruments require that the unit is held away from the body and at a 90° angle
from the sound source, while others may be held at a 70° angle from the source and so forth. When
investigating personal exposure, the SLM is usually held at worker’s hearing zone.

SOUND GRADIENTS OR CONTOURS

It is commonly advisable to map out the facility where monitoring is conducted, locating all
noise sources and indicating the general sound pressure levels surrounding the sources. This map
is referred to as a sound level gradient or contour. A sound level gradient is a pictorial representation
of the facility with bands of ranked sound pressure levels depicted surrounding the sources.
In the noise gradient evaluation, a scaled diagram of the area is used. Sound pressure level measures
are then taken in numerous predetermined grid pattern locations surrounding the noise sources. In
addition to the diagram of the perimeter of the room/area, all contents should be included in a noise
gradient. Tables, chairs, machines, storage shelves, etc., would be depicted in the sketch. Graph paper
is recommended for this task, with each square representing a fixed unit of distance. Using a scale
16-4 BISESI AND KOHN’S INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE EVALUATION METHODS, SECOND EDITION

Calibrator

dB

Sound Level Meter

Figure 16.2 Calibration of SLM-OBA by an acoustical calibrator.

of 0.25 in. (one side of a square on standard size graph paper) representing 1 ft, draw to scale the
perimeter of the area and all area contents (using labeling codes referenced in the map key).
Employing a tape measure, room contents, and reference points, take several measurements (20
to 40) of sound pressure levels at various locations throughout the area to be evaluated. Once these
measurements have been taken and recorded on the area map, connect the measurements with the
same sound pressure levels. Rather than noting circular patterns of decreasing noise intensities as
would be expected in areas of free-field noise, irregular patterns of sound pressures will emerge.

UNIT 16 EXERCISE

OVERVIEW

The exercise will provide the fundamental concepts for conducting instantaneous area moni-
toring of sound pressure levels using an SLM-OBA. Place a check mark (V) in the open box (D)
when you have obtained applicable material and completed the steps for monitoring.

MATERIAL
1. Calibration
D Electronic acoustical calibrator
D Screwdriver (i.e., 1/8 in.)

2. Monitoring
D Type 2 (or better) SLM or SLM-OBA set at A-scale and slow response
D Tape measure
D Field monitoring data form (Figure 16.3)
D 0.25 ¥ 0.25 in. grid graph paper
 Field Monitoring Data Form:
Real-Time Monitoring for Sound Levels

Facility Name and Location: Date Monitoring Conducted: Monitoring Conducted By:

Sound Level Meter (Type/Manufacturer/Model):

Calibration: Post-Monitoring Calibration: Meter Response (Fast/Slow):

Air Temperature: ____ oC Air Pressure: mm Hg Relative Humidity: %

Source
Identification 31.5 125 250 500 1 2 4 8 16
of Area Distance dBA dBL dBL
(ft) Hz Hz Hz Hz KHz KHz KHz KHz KHz
EVALUATION OF HAZARDOUS AGENTS AND FACTORS

Field Notes:

Figure 16.3 Field monitoring data form for real-time area measurements of sound.
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16-6 BISESI AND KOHN’S INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE EVALUATION METHODS, SECOND EDITION

METHOD

1. Calibration of the SLM or SLM-OBA

D Review the manufacturer’s instruction manual for proper assembly and operation.
D Check the batteries for the SLM and the acoustical calibrator.
D Turn “ON” the SLM and calibrator.
D Adjust the SLM to select the appropriate decibel range for the acoustical calibrator.
D Place the calibrator over the microphone of the SLM. If necessary, adjust the meter until it
indicates the specific sound pressure level generated by the calibrator. Turn the set screw to
adjust the reading.
D Record data on the field monitoring data form.
D Remove the calibrator from the SLM and turn “OFF” the acoustical calibrated.
D The SLM is ready for monitoring.

2. Monitoring Noise Using an SLM or SLM-OBA

D Get approval to conduct monitoring in an area where airborne levels of sound are likely to be
elevated and variable and perform monitoring accordingly. Alternatively, conduct a simulated
monitoring exercise using a sound generator as a noise source.
D Using the SLM and tape measure, measure sound pressure levels at various locations and distances
from the source and determine if readings approximate free-field conditions or expectations.
D Use graph paper and draw a noise gradient or contour map. Include reference points such as a
door (e.g., labeled east laboratory entrance) and indicate all noise sources using room contents
and structures as reference points. Obtain a floor plan of the facility if possible.
D Use the SLM-OBA and record measurements at specific center band frequencies in various
locations.
D Complete a field monitoring data form, remembering to record your name, facility and location
monitored, date, air temperature, air pressure, relative humidity, and the manufacturer, model, and
serial number of each SLM, OBA, and acoustical calibrator.