Sound masking in buildings
Sound masking is the process of adding a low level, unobtrusive background sound to an environment to reduce the intelligibility of human speech and reduce noise distractions in that environment. The sound is typically introduced through speakers installed in or above the ceiling. In many cases, the distractions can be significantly reduced down to about 15 feet.
Sound masking can be used in public buildings, large open office spaces and noisy work environments where distractions can cause a reduction in productivity.
The key to a successful sound masking installation is the uniformity of the sound delivery, the spectrum of the sound and the volume of the sound. Uniform sound delivery requires that the speakers not be facing towards the occupants of the space. As employees circulate through the space, they should not be able to discern the location of the speakers. A consistent sound delivery allows our human brains to filter it and push it out of our consciousness. Successfully achieving this balance of sound frequency and sound levels will determine the success of the system.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- 2015 Government response to media reports about noise complaints
- Airborne noise
- Approved Document E.
- Ash deafening.
- Audio frequency.
- Building acoustics.
- Building Bulletin 93: acoustic design of schools.
- Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005.
- Decibel.
- Flanking noise
- Flanking sound.
- Impact noise
- New noise guidance
- Noise nuisance.
- Noise pollution.
- Noise v sound.
- Privacy.
- Reverberation time.
- Speech privacy.
- Sound absorption.
- Sound absorption coefficient.
- Sound frequency.
- Sound insulation.
- Sound v noise
- Structure-borne sound.
[edit] External references
Featured articles and news
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Heat pumps, vehicle chargers and heating appliances must be sold with smart functionality.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
New-style degrees set for reformed ARB accreditation
Following the ARB Tomorrow's Architects competency outcomes for Architects.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.