dB(A) | dB(C) | NC | RC | Octave Band | DNL | Leq | L10 | L90 | Lp | Lw
LSG&A provides services to measure, evaluate, and control noise and vibration within spaces and in the environment. Governing bodies such as the NJDEP and NYCDEP maintain and enforce noise regulations within their jurisdiction, and many industry standards set background sound level goals for interior spaces.
Outdoor noise evaluations involve traditional techniques for spreadsheet based modeling in addition to three-dimensional software to calculate expected sound levels for complex outdoor situations, considering the effects of distance, topography, ground cover, structures, and source directivity. The results of these evaluations are used to assess compliance with federal, state and local noise regulations, and for comparison with existing sound levels to assess potential acoustical impact. LSG&A is also experienced in HUD noise studies to determine the effect of transportation noise on residences and provide the appropriate recommendations and documentation.
Interior noise evaluations include using ASHRAE techniques to calculate expected sound levels due to HVAC systems and develop recommendations for noise and vibration control. Background sound levels are a common design goal metric used in industry standards such as ANSI, ASHRAE, LEED, and FGI. Baseline noise measurements at proposed sites are used to develop sound isolation recommendations for building façade elements. Facility and equipment noise studies are used to assess employee noise exposure and OSHA noise level compliance in industrial settings.
Acoustical measurements are often performed to quantify baseline conditions, investigate noise disturbances, monitor activity, and verify results after noise control measures are implemented. LSG&A has portable analyzers that are capable of one-third and full octave band sound and vibration measurements, long-term monitoring, and real-time FFT analysis. At the beginning and end of each measurement period, the entire system calibration is verified by means of a sound level calibrator. The equipment can also be programmed to simultaneously capture and record data and audio of events that exceed a desired threshold level. All of LSG&A’s sound level meters meet ANSI Type 1 criteria, and are calibrated annually in a laboratory which provides NIST traceable calibration certificates.