What are the most common methods for monitoring noise and vibration impacts in Environmental Engineering?

1 Sound level meters

Sound level meters are devices that measure the sound pressure level in decibels (dB) at a specific location and time. They can be used to monitor the noise levels from different sources and compare them with the ambient background noise and the noise standards or criteria. Sound level meters can be handheld, portable, or stationary, depending on the purpose and duration of the monitoring. They can also be equipped with filters, microphones, and software to analyze the frequency, intensity, and characteristics of the noise.

2 Noise dosimeters

Noise dosimeters are devices that measure the noise exposure of a person or an animal over a period of time. They are usually worn by the subject or attached to a collar or harness. They can be used to monitor the noise impacts on the health and well-being of workers, residents, or wildlife. Noise dosimeters can record the sound pressure level, the duration, and the frequency of the noise exposure and calculate the equivalent continuous noise level (Leq) or the noise dose (D).

3 Vibration meters

Vibration meters are devices that measure the vibration level in terms of acceleration, velocity, or displacement at a specific point and time. They can be used to monitor the vibration levels from different sources and compare them with the vibration standards or criteria. Vibration meters can be handheld, portable, or stationary, depending on the purpose and duration of the monitoring. They can also be equipped with sensors, transducers, and software to analyze the frequency, amplitude, and direction of the vibration.

4 Vibration dosimeters

Vibration dosimeters are devices that measure the vibration exposure of a person or an object over a period of time. They are usually attached to the subject or the structure. They can be used to monitor the vibration impacts on the health and safety of workers, residents, or buildings. Vibration dosimeters can record the vibration level, the duration, and the frequency of the vibration exposure and calculate the equivalent continuous vibration level (Leqv) or the vibration dose value (VDV).

5 Noise and vibration modeling

Noise and vibration modeling are methods that use mathematical equations and computer software to predict the noise and vibration levels and impacts from various sources and scenarios. They can be used to estimate the noise and vibration levels and impacts before, during, or after a project or an activity. Noise and vibration modeling can also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of noise and vibration mitigation measures, such as barriers, insulation, or damping.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?