Robert D. O'Neal
Tech. Environ., Inc., 1601 Trapelo Rd., Waltham, MA 02154
The prediction of future sound levels at sensitive receptors around an industrial site is an important process when siting a new project or expanding an existing operation. Sound-level monitoring was conducted to establish existing broadband and octave band levels during a time period when operation of the new industrial source would have the most noticeable impact. Sound-level data for the proposed source was acquired either through manufacturer's data or by a sound-level measurement program on a comparable existing facility. Future noise levels were calculated using the reduction with distance equation valid for point sources of noise. The predicted future noise level was compared to state and/or local regulations, or any appropriate client sound-level requirements. Where sound levels were predicted to be in violation of the relevant criteria, future sound levels were estimated with the addition of a barrier. This technique was applied to supermarket rooftop equipment and refrigeration trucks docked at a warehouse. Sound levels measured after the equipment commenced operation were within 2 dBA of the predicted levels.