New Classification for Performance of Electronic Sound Masking Systems when used in Building Spaces
1. Scope
1.1 This standard is intended to specify the sound masking system performance necessary to characterize the installed system according to a performance rating classification. 1.2 This standard is intended for both a) the tuning and commissioning measurements, and b) for the field verification measurements. 1.3 This approach can be used to characterize both new and existing sound masking systems installed in fully furnished building spaces, either before or after occupancy. 1.4 This standard specifies the performance criteria that must be met by an installed and tuned electronic sound masking system, to be listed in either of 3 rated performance classifications. 1.5 The performance criteria include a) the spatial uniformity of the masking sound stated in terms of both the A weighted sound levels, and in the one-third octave band sound levels, and b) the temporal uniformity of the sound generator system. 1.6 Field measurement of the masking system performance shall be conducted according to ASTM Standard E 1573. 1.7 Comparison of the rated classification for the sound masking system performance to the project specification can be used to determine if the installed masking sound meets a particular specification for spatial uniformity both in dBA level and in one-third octave band content throughout the coverage area. 1.8 This specification is intended to only evaluate the masking system performance, and does not indicate the acceptability of the overall acoustical environment in the building space.
Keywords
Speech Privacy
Rationale
Sound Masking systems have been in use for decades, and have been generally perceived to be valuable in controlling the negative effects of speech intrusion within open plan, or by providing speech confidentiality in closed plan. However, poorly designed or tuned systems have too often resulted in a negative perception of the value of using such systems. This standard is intended to characterize the technical capabilities of the installed sound masking system so that occupant expectation will be achieve in a more consistent way.
