Preparation has begun on a standard guide that will provide a set of criteria that can be used by architects, engineers, and builders to specify the desired acoustical quality of multi-family dwellings.

A task group of ASTM Subcommittee E33.04 on Application of Acoustical Materials and Systems has been formed to develop the guide, providing graduated criteria for airborne and impact (footfall) noise. Later, the scope may be expanded to include additional criteria for other noise sources commonly found in multi-family dwellings, such as plumbing fixtures and pipes, vent fans, etc.

The task group will research existing performance requirements and eventually develop classes of construction to allow consumers and builders choices for acoustical privacy.

Persons and organizations having technical information regarding airborne and impact criteria are requested to contact the task group chair, Trevor R. T. Nightingale, Ph.D., National Research Council of Canada, Institute for Research in Construction, M-27 Montreal Rd., Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0R6 (phone: 613/993-0102). Committee E33 meets April 9-10 in W. Conshohocken, Pa. Those wishing to participate directly in task group meetings should contact Staff Manager Steve Mawn, ASTM (phone: 610-832-9726). //

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