Average rating:
The softest sound heard by the human ear is 0.000,000,000,000,000,1 watts and the most piercing is 0.000,1 watts - a scale of 10,000,000,000, or 1010. With reference to sound, noise can be said to be unwanted higher volume sound with no meaning and usually obstructive of communication.
Step 1:

Why measure? Since noise interferes with meaningful communication, the need is to reduce or remove noise. Understanding the measure of the problem (does it exist?) is the initial step and will provide a guide to actioning on it (determining noise exposure levels etc). Noise is said to be measured when its characteristics are quantified. Measures of noise would include sound pressure magnitude and frequency content, loudness, pitch and fluctuation strength. The decision on a metric and measurement method would depend on the application, some being isolated source emission, hearing conservation, outside environmental noise, interior room noise, etc. Measuring for compliance to a statutory standard would be different from that intended for comfort.

Step 2:

Steps to measure noise.

  • Determine measurement items like a sound pressure level for comparison against a reference value and the noise for frequency analysis
  • Determine the nature & origins of the noise, the regularity and span, conditions in which it spreads and the strength of the noise to inflict hurt .Also identify any other peripheral noises
  • While planning, equipment, procedure and points of measurement, communication process, noise seepage etc must be examined in view of the measurement objective.
Step 3:

Requirements for measurement.

  • Tools -keep a list of necessary apparatus including batteries, power cables, timers, tripods, transceivers, etc, handy and do a dry run with the equipment prior to actual measurement. Frequently used tools are the sound level meter (SLM) for noise levels caused by a  discrete source and noise surveys, the noise dosimeter for personal noise exposure and the integrating sound level meter (ISLM). The user's manual will provide details on calibration, operation and interpreting readings.
  • Documents & records- have papers on site details, maps, etc to facilitate measurement points and records of weather conditions, measurement range, etc
  • A team which is well informed on the plan and prepared with necessary tools
Step 4:

Creating ideal conditions. Make sure to take the following steps to ensure your test goes through cleanly and you get the correct data to measure the noise levels.

  • Wind prevention screen for the noise level meter microphone
  • The site should be free from magnetic fields, vibrations, severe temperature or humidity
  • The time selected for measurement must be when peripheral sounds are constant
  • Based on an approximation of the A-weighted sound pressure level, set the full range for the measurement time and keep a watch for overloads
  • Ensure regular recording of target sound, noise, environment variation details etc. Where the measurer at the source does not have view of the border parts, then a team member must be stationed at the border with regular communication on valuable details
  • Identify recording spots on the notes and substantiate positions through site photographs
  • Ensure there are no interruptions or noise from the measurement team
  • Noise figures are relative to the way it has been measured and International standards are set for measurement, control and declaration of noise in specific areas.
What remains is to ask yourself what can be done to help - steps to reduce noise, report noise issues and use ear guards. Happy listening!
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Garrett has recently discovered the joy of grilling chicken like a confident, pro griller, and wants to share the article with all you readers out there.
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