Equivalent continuous sound pressure level
Sound pressure level is the parameter by which sound levels are measured in air. It is measured in decibels. The threshold of hearing has been set at 0dB, while the threshold of pain is approximately 120dB. Normal speech is approximately 60dB at a distance of 1 metre and a change of 3dB in a time varying sound signal is commonly regarded as being just detectable. A change of 10dB is subjectively twice, or half, as loud. See also LAEQ,T
The term ‘equivalent continuous sound pressure level’ refers to:
| An index used internationally for the assessment of environmental sound impacts. It is defined as the notional unchanging level that would, over a given period of time (T), deliver the same sound energy as the actual time-varying sound over the same period. Hence fluctuating sound levels can be described in terms of an equivalent single figure value. |
It is expressed as:
Ref The HS2 London-West Midlands Environmental Statement, published by the Department for Transport in November 2013.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki:
- Airborne noise
- Ambient sound.
- Audio frequency.
- Building acoustics.
- Decibel.
- Flanking noise
- Flanking sound.
- Impact noise
- Noise - doors and windows.
- Noise nuisance.
- Noise pollution
- Noise v sound
- Noise.
- Reverberation time.
- Sound frequency.
- Sound insulation.
- Sound power level.
- Sound v noise
- Structure-borne sound.
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
CIOB celebrates positive Ofsted report.
The Building Safety Regulator announces a call for evidence.
Government approach could undermine delivery and regeneration.
World's first mass timber data centre.
The overlooked environmental aspect of data centre development.
Introduction to radon awareness
New technical information sheet published by CIOB.
Updated supplier guide can help electrical contractors engage with NHP.
CIAT confirm the winners of the 2026 architectural technology awards.
Government launches a one stop shop for flood preparedness.
Sir Edwin Lutyens: Britain's greatest architect? Book review.
CIOB publishes free template to help assess and manage risks.
ECA's reflections on Party Conference season
Burnham wants to be confident of winning before asking for a fresh mandate.
New Chief Construction and Scientific Adviser
Sergio Cavalaro, Professor of Infrastructure Systems at Loughborough University.