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Chapter 451
NOISE - AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
RESIDENTIAL
Article 1
INTERPRETATION
451.1.1 Construction-defined
451.1.2 Conveyance-defined
451.1.3 Council-defined
451.1.4 Minister-defined
451.1.5 Ministry-defined
451.1.6 Municipality-defined
451.1.7 Noise-defined
451.1.8 Point of reception-defined
451.1.9 Publication-defined
451.1.10 Quite zone-defined
451.1.11 Residential area-defined
451.1.12 Stationary source-defined
451.1.13 Technical terms-defined
Article 2
SOUND LEVEL LIMITATIONS - STATIONARY SOURCES
451.2.1 Emission-exceeding acceptable level-prohibited
451.2.2 Exemption-agricultural equipment
451.2.3 Residential air conditioner
451.2.4 Preemption-less restrictive provision to apply
KITCHENER 451.1 DECEMBER 1996
451.1.1 NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES 451.1.5
Article 3
ENFORCEMENT
451.3.1 Fine-for contravention
Article 4
ENACTMENT
451.4.1 Ministry approval-required
Ministry approval-received
SCHEDULE
Schedule`A' -List of Publications
Article 1
INTERPRETATION
451.1.1 Construction-defined
"construction"includes erection,alteration,repair,dismantling,demolition,
structural maintenance,painting,moving,land clearing,earth moving,grad-
ing, excavating, the laying of pipe and conduit whether above or below
ground level, street and highway building,concreting, equipment installa-
tion and alteration and the structural installation of construction components
and materials in any form or for any purpose, and includes any work in
connection therewith.
451.1.2 Conveyance- defined
"conveyance"includes a vehicle and any other device employed to transport
a person or persons or goods from place to place but does not include any
such device or vehicle if operated only within the premises of a person.
451.1.3 Council- defined
"Council"means the Council of The Corporation of the City of Kitchener.
451.1.4 Minister-defined
"Minister"means Minister of Environment and Energy.
451.1.5 Ministry- defined
"Ministry"means Ministry of Environment and Energy.
DECEMBER 1996 451.2 KITCHENER
451.1.6 NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES 451.1.13
451.1.6 Municipality-defined
"municipality" means the land within the geographic limit of the City of
Kitchener.
451.1.7 Noise-defined
"noise"means unwanted sound.
451.1.8 Point of reception-defined
"point of reception" means any point on the premises of a person where
sound originating from other than those premises is received.
451.1.9 Publication- defined
"publication"means a specified publication of the Ministry of Environment
and Energy which is named in Schedule W, a copy of every publication
which is named in Schedule`A'is hereby made part of this Chapter.
451.1.10 Quite zone-defined
"Quiet Zone means those areas of the municipality specified as follows:
(a) all hospitals and lands appurtenant thereto;
(b) all nursing homes and lands appurtenant thereto.
451.1.11 Residential area-defined
"residential area" means those residential areas of the municipality zoned
R-1,R-2,R-3,R4,R-5,R-6,R-7,R-8 and R-9 from time to time by the City
of Kitchener Zoning By-law 85-1, as amended.
451.1.12 Stationary source-defined
"stationary source"means a source of sound which does not normally move
from place to place and includes the premises of a person as one stationary
source,unless the dominant source of sound on those premises is construc-
tion or a conveyance.
451.1.13 Technical terms-defined
In this Chapter all the words which are of a technical nature and are related to
sound shall have the meanings specified for them in Publication NPC-101 -
Technical Definitions. By-law 96-5, 15 January, 1996.
KITCHENER 451.3 DECEMBER 1996
451.2.1 NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES 451.4.1
Article 2
SOUND LEVEL LIMITATIONS - STATIONARY SOURCES
451.2.1 Emission-exceeding acceptable level-prohibited
No person shall emit or cause or permit the emission of sound from a station-
ary source such that the level of sound from that source at the point ofrecep-
tion located in a Quiet Zone or a Residential Area, exceeds the applicable
sound level imit prescribed in publication NPC-205- Sound Level Limits
for Stationary Sources in Class I & 2 Areas (Urban). By-law 96-30, 26
February, 1996.
451.2.2 Exemption-agricultural equipment
Section 451.2.1 does not apply to any equipment,apparatus or device used
in agriculture for food crop seeding,chemical spraying or harvesting.
451.2.3 Residential air conditioner
No person shall emit or cause or permit the emission of sound from the oper-
ation of a residential air conditioning device of a type referred to in Publica-
tion NPC-216-Residential Air Conditioning Devices,resulting in a sound
level at a point of reception located in a Quiet Zone or Residential Area in ex-
cess of the applicable sound level limit set out in Publication NPC-216 -
Residential Air Conditioning Devices.
451.2.4 Preemption-less restrictive provision to apply
Where a source of sound is subject to Sections 451.2.1 through 451.2.3 in-
clusive,the less restrictive provisions shall prevail.
Article 3
ENFORCEMENT
451.3.1 Fine-for contravention
Every person who contravenes any provisions of this Chapter is guilty of an
offence and is liable,upon conviction,to a fine not exceeding Five Thousand
Dollars($5,000),exclusive of costs,for each offence,and every such fine is
recoverable under the Provincial Offences Pict.
Article 4
ENACTMENT
451.4.1 Ministry approval-required
This by-law comes into force on the day it is approved by the Minister ofEn-
vironment and Energy.
DECEMBER 1996 451.4 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
Ministry approval-received
Approval of By-law 96-5,as amended,was received July 10,1996,from the
Minister of Environment and Energy.Approval No. 54572.
KITCHENER 451.5 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
SCHEDULE
Schedule`A' -List of Publications
Publication NPC-101 Technical Definitions
Publication NPC-102 Instrumentation
Publication NPC-103 Procedures
Publication NPC-104 Sound Level Adjustments
Publication NPC-205 Sound Level Limits
for Stationary
Sources in Class 1 &
2 Areas(Urban)
Publication NPC-206 Sound Levels due to
Road Traffic
Publication NPC-216 Residential Air
Conditioning Devices
By-law 96-30,26 February, 1996; Schedule `A'.
DECEMBER 1996 451.6 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
PUBLICATION NPC-101
Technical Definitions
1. Technical Terminology and Standards
The following terminology and standards shall be used for the purposes of
any Noise Control By-law enacted pursuant to The Environmental Pro-
tection Act and all Publications of the Noise Pollution Control Section of
the Pollution Control Branch of the Ministry of the Environment.The def-
inition of any technical word used in such By-Law or this or any such Pub-
lication and not herein defined shall be the definition appearing in the
applicable Publication of the Canadian Standards Association(CSA),the
American National Standards Institute(ANSI),the International Organi-
zation for Standardization(ISO),the International Electrotechnical Com-
mission (IEC), the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), or the
Machinery and Equipment Manufacturers Association of Canada
(MENAC):
(1) Acoustic Calibrator
An"Acoustic Calibrator"is an electro-mechanical or mechani-
cal device intended for the calibration of sound level meters and
meeting the specifications of Publication NPC-102 - Instru-
mentation,for Acoustic Calibrators.
(2) A-Weighting
"A-weighting" is the frequency weighting characteristic as
specified in IEC 123 or IEC 179 and intended to approximate
the relative sensitivity of the normal human ear to different fre-
quencies(pitches)of sound.
(3) A-weighted Sound Pressure Level
The"A-weighted sound pressure level" is the sound pressure
level modified by application of the A-weighting. It is mea-
sured in decibels,A-weighted, and denoted dBA.
(4) Beating
"Beating"is the characteristic of a sound which has an audible
cyclically varying sound level,caused by the interaction of two
sounds of almost the same frequency.
(5) Buzzing Sounds
A"buzzing sound" is a sound which is characterized by the
presence of a large number of related discrete harmonics in its
frequency spectrum.These harmonics together with the funda-
mental frequency produce a sound which subjectively is termed
a"buzz". Examples are sounds from a buzzer or a chain saw.
KITCHENER 451.7 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
(6) Decibel
The "decibel" is a dimensionless measure of sound level or
sound pressure level;see sound pressure level.
(7) Effective Sound Pressure
The "effective sound pressure" at a point is the root-mean
square value of the instantaneous sound pressure, over a time
interval, at the point under consideration as detected with a
sound level meter meeting the requirements of Publication
NPC-102-Instrumentation.
(8) Equivalent Sound Level
The "equivalent sound level" sometimes denoted L,q, is the
value of the constant sound level which would result in expo-
sure to the same total A-weighted energy as would the specified
time-varying sound,if the constant sound level persisted over
an equal time interval.It is measured in dBA.
The mathematical definition of equivalent sound level(L,q)for
an interval defined as occupying the period between two points
in time t and t2 is:
L.eq = 10 10g10 2 1 tl j p2(t) dt
P2
r
where p(t)is the time varying A-weighted sound pressure and
pr is the reference pressure of 20 mPa
(9) Fast Response
"Fast response"is a dynamic characteristic setting of a sound
level meter meeting the applicable specifications of Publication
NPC-102-Instrumentation.
(10) Frequency
The"frequency"of a periodic quantity is the number of times
that the quantity repeats itself in a unit interval of time.The unit
of measurement is hertz(Hz)which is the same as cycles per
second.
(11) General Purpose Sound Level"
A"General Purpose Sound Level Meter"is a sound level meter
which meets the specifications of Publication NPC-102 -In-
strumentation, for General Purpose Sound Level Meters.
DECEMBER 1996 451.8 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
(12) Impulse Response
"Impulse response" is a dynamic characteristic setting of a
sound level meter meeting the specifications of Publication
NPC-102-Instrumentation,for Impulse Sound Level Meters.
(13) Impulsive Sound
An"impulsive sound"is a single pressure pulse or a singleburst
of pressure pulses,as defined by IEC 179A,First supplement to
IEC 179, Sections 3.1 and 3.2.
(14) Impulse Sound Level
The"impulse sound level" is the sound level of an impulsive
sound as measured with an Impulse Sound Level Meter set to
impulse response. It is measured in A-weighted decibels, de-
noted dBAI.
(15) Impulse Sound Level Meter
An"Impulse Sound Level Meter"is a sound level meter which
meets the specifications of Publication NPC-102-Instrumenta-
tion, for Impulse Sound Level Meters.
(16) Integrating Sound Level Meter
An "Integrating Sound Level Meter" is a sound level meter
which is capable of being used to derive the equivalent sound
level (Leq) and which meets the specifications of Publication
NPC-102-Instrumentation,for Type B Integrating Sound Level
Meters.
(17) Logarithmic Mean Impulse Sound Level
The"Logarithmic Mean Impulse Sound Level",sometimes de-
noted LLM of N impulsive sounds,is ten times the logarithm to
the base 10 of the arithmetic mean of ten to the power of one
tenth the impulse sound level of each impulsive sound.
Algebraically, it can be written as:
1 12 dBAIN/10
LLM = 10 log" [N (10 dBAI /10+ 10 dBA1 /10 ...+10
where,dBAI L dBA12. ....dBAIN,are the N impulse sound levels.
KITCHENER 451.9 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
(18) Overpressure
The"overpressure"at a point due to an acoustic disturbance is
the instantaneous difference at that point between the peak pres-
sure during the disturbance and the ambient atmospheric pres-
sure. The unit of measurement is the pascal. One pascal,
abbreviated Pa, is the same as one newton per square metre,
abbreviated N/m2.
(19) Overpressure Level
The"overpressure level"is twenty times the logarithm to the
base 10 of the ratio of the peak pressure to the reference pressure
of 20 mPa.
(20) Peak Particle Velocity
The"peak particle velocity"is the maximum instantaneous ve-
locity experienced by the particles of a medium when set into
transient vibratory motion. This can be derived as the magni-
tude of the vector sum of three orthogonal components and is
measured in cm/s.
(21) Peak Pressure Level Detector
A"Peak Pressure Level Detector"is a device capable of mea-
suring peak pressure or pressure level perturbations in air and
which meets the specifications of Publication NPC-102 -In-
strumentation,for Peak Pressure Level Detectors.
(22) Percentile Sound Level
The"x percentile sound level",designated Lx is the sound level
exceeded x percent of a specified time period.It is measured in
dBA.
(23) Quasi-Steady Impulsive Sound
"Quasi-Steady Impulsive Sound" is a sequence of impulsive
sounds emitted from the same source,having a time interval of
less than 0.5 s between successive impulsive sounds.
(24) Slow Response
"Slow response"is a dynamic characteristic setting of a sound
level meter meeting the applicable specifications of Publication
NPC-102-Instrumentation.
(25) Sound
"Sound"is an oscillation in pressure, stress,particle displace-
ment or particle velocity,in a medium with internal forces(e.g.
elastic,viscous),or the superposition of such propagated oscil-
lations,which may cause an auditory sensation.
DECEMBER 1996 451.10 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
(26) Sound Level
"Sound level"is the A-weighted sound pressure level.
(27) Sound Level Meter
A"sound level meter"is an instrument which is sensitive to and
calibrated for the measurement of sound.
(28) Sound Pressure
The"sound pressure"is the instantaneous difference between
the actual pressure and the average or barometric pressure at a
given location. The unit of measurement is the micropascal
(mPa) which is the same as a micronewton per square metre
(mN/m2).
(29)Sound Pressure Level
The"sound pressure level"is twenty times the logarithm to the
base 10 of the ratio of the effective pressure(p)of a sound to the
reference pressure(pr)of 20 mPa. Thus the sound pressure
20 log,, P
P
level in dB =
(30) Tonality
A"tone"or a"tonal sound"is any sound which can be distinctly
identified through the sensation of pitch.
(31) Vibration
"Vibration" is a temporal and spatial oscillation of displace-
ment,velocity or acceleration in a solid medium.
(32) Vibration Velocity Detector
A"Vibration Velocity Detector"is a device which is capable of
measuring vibration velocity and which meets the specifica-
tions of Publication NPC-102-Instrumentation, for Vibration
Velocity Detectors.
KITCHENER 451.11 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
PUBLICATION NCP-102
Instrumentation
1. Scope
This Publication sets out minimum specifications for equip-
ment used for the measurement of sound and vibration. For
most of the specifications the International Electrotechnical
Commission(IEC)recommended standards 123 (First edition
1961), 179(Second edition 1973)and 179A(First supplement
to IEC 179,published 1973)have been adopted.In some cases,
these standards are amended or augmented for greater
precision.
TABLE 102-1
NPC-102 Type of Instrument Application
Section
3 General Purpose Sound Level Meter Non-impulsive sounds
4 Impulse Sound Level Meter Impulsive sounds
5 Peak Pressure Level Detector Peak pressure perturbations
6 Type B Integrating Varying sounds of low crest factor
Sound Level Meter
7 Type A Integrating Varying sounds of high crest factor
Sound Level Meter
8 Vibration Velocity Detector Peak vibration velocity in solids
9 Acoustic Calibrator Calibration of sound level meters
2. Technical Definitions
The technical terms used in this Publication are defined in the
specifications themselves or in Publication NPC-101 -Techni-
cal Definitions.
3. General Purpose Sound Level Meter
(1) Purpose
A General Purpose Sound Level Meter is a sound
level meter which is intended to be used for the
measurement of non-impulsive sounds, without
significant A-weighted acoustic energy above
2000 Flz
(2) Specifications
A sound level meter which meets the following spec-
ifications is a General Purpose Sound Level Meter:
DECEMBER 1996 451.12 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
(a) the sound level meter, including a microphone
equipped with a windscreen shall meet the specifi-
cations of IEC 123,except that,in addition to meeting the
specifications of subclause 5.2 thereof, the micro-
phone of the sound level meter shall also meet the
specifications of subclause 5.2 amended by the sub-
stitution therein of an angle of incidence of±30°in-
stead of ±90°, as it therein appears, and by the
substitution of Table 102-2 hereof instead of Table 1,
as it therein appears;
(b) the sound level meter shall incorporate A-
weighting,which is specified in IEC 123 as optional;
(c) the sound level meter shall have a minimum usable
range of sensitivity of from 40 dBA to 100 dBA and
it shall read to an accuracy of±1.0 dB over that
range;
(d) a windscreen shall be installed on the microphone
and shall not affect by more than 1 dB the tolerance
prescribed in clauses(a) and(c);
(e) the sound level meter, including a microphone
equipped with a windscreen, shall,when operated
in the presence of wind, indicate a wind-induced
sound level not in excess of the relevant value listed
in Table 102-3.
4. Impulse Sound Level Meter
(1) Purpose
An Impulse Sound Level Meter is a sound level
meter which is intended to be used for the measure-
ment of any sounds,including sounds for which a
General Purpose Sound Level Meter maybe used.
(2) Specifications
A sound level meter which meets the following
specifications is an Impulse Sound Level Meter:
(a) the sound level meter, including a microphone
equipped with a windscreen,shall meet the specifi-
cations of a General Purpose Sound Level Meter;
(b) the sound level meter, including a microphone
equipped with a windscreen,shall meet the specifi-
cations of IEC 179 and IEC 179A, supplement to
KITCHENER 451.13 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
IEC 179, including the optional characteristics
mentioned in subclause 4.5 of IEC 179A;
(c) the sound level meter shall incorporate A-weight-
ing as specified in IEC 179.
5.Peak Pressure Level Detector
(1) Purpose
A Peak Pressure Level Detector is a sound level
meter which is intended to be used for the measure-
ment of peak pressure perturbations in air. The
value indicated by this device is not an average of
the pressure level perturbations.
(2) Specifications
A sound level meter which meets the following
specifications is a Peak Pressure Level Detector
(the features of this device are incorporated in an
Impulse Sound Level Meter as specified in Section
4 above):
(a) the microphone of the sound level meter, when
equipped with a windscreen,shall perform within a
tolerance of±l dB throughout the frequency range
of from 5 Hz to 31.5 Hz in the circumstances and
conditions for use set out in Table 1 of IEC 179;
(b) the sound level meter without the microphone shall
be capable of providing linear response as specified
in subclause 4.5 of IEC 179, within a tolerance of
±1 dB throughout the frequency range of from 5 Hz
to 15 kHz;
(c) the sound level meter shall incorporate the optional
characteristics specified in subclause 4.5 of IEC
179A;
(d) the sound level meter shall meet the specifications
set out in IEC 179 clause 3,subclauses 4.1,4.2,4.4,
4.5,4.7, 4.8,clause 5, subclauses 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5,
6.8, 6.9, 7.1 through 7.9, 7.11, 8.1, 8.2, 8.3, 8.6
through 8.9, and the appropriate specifications of
clause 10.
6. Type B Integrating Sound Level Meter
(1)Purpose
DECEMBER 1996 451.14 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
(a)An Integrating Sound Level Meter is a sound level
meter which is intended to be used for the measure-
ment of sound over a period of time, such that the
equivalent sound level (Leq) of the sound may be
obtained.
(b)The Type 8 Integrating Sound Level Meter is speci-
fied with sufficient dynamic range and measure-
ment precision to measure equivalent sound levels
of general sounds that exceed limitations set out in
this by-law.
(c)Either a Type A or Type B Integrating Sound Level
Meter maybe used for most such applications,but a
Type A Integrating Sound Level Meter must be
used when the sound under study is Quasi-Steady
Impulsive Sound (see NPC-103 -Procedures, sec-
tions 3 and 4) or when the operational dynamic
range greatly exceeds 40 dB.
(2) General Description
The tolerances specified for the microphone,
weighting and amplifier of a Type B Integrating
Sound Level Meter are the same as those specified
for a General Purpose Sound Level Meter in sec-
tion 3 of this Publication. The computational por-
tions of the instrument must operate within a net
accuracy of±1 dB for timeperiods of 20 minutes to
one hour over a dynamic range of at least 40 dB
with test signals having a crest factor(as defined in
IEC 179A)up to 3.An operator-activated switch is
included to inhibit the integration function alone
and, if the system includes an elapsed-time clock,
to inhibit both the integration and time summation
functions.
(3) Specifications
A sound level meter which meets the following
specifications is a Type B Integrating Sound Level
Meter:
(a) the instrument will generally be a combination of
microphone, amplifier, A-weighting network,
computation circuit to obtain the integral of the
mean square A-weighted pressure, display and a
means of inhibiting the integration, but may vary
KITCHENER 451.15 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
from the above provided that it performs the same
functions within the tolerances set out below;
(b) the instrument may include computational circuitry
to calculate and display the equivalent sound level
directly;
(c) the microphone of the instrument shall meet the
specifications of clause 5 of IEC 123,except that,in
addition to meeting the specifications of subclause
5.2 thereof, the microphone shall also meet the
specifications ofsubclause 5.2 amended by the sub-
stitution therein of an angle of incidence of±30'in-
stead of±90°, as it therein appears, and by the
substitution of Table 102-2 hereof instead of Table
1, as it therein appears;
(d) a windscreen shall be installed on the microphone
during operation and shall not affect by more than 1
dB the tolerance prescribed in clause(c);
(e) the sound level meter, including a microphone
equipped with a windscreen, shall,when operated
in the presence of wind, indicate a wind-induced
sound level not in excess of the relevant value listed
in Table 102-3.
(f) the A-weighting network shall meet the specifica-
tions of Table II and Figure I of IEC 123;
(g) the amplifier shall meet the specifications of sub-
clauses 7.2, 7.3 and 7.11 of IEC 123;
(h) for each sensitivity setting of the instrument the am-
plifier shall have a power handling capacity at least
10 dB greater than the maximum sound level speci-
fied for that sensitivity setting;
(i) if the computation circuit is of the sampling(digi-
tal) type, when operating in conjunction with the
microphone, windscreen, A-weighting network
and amplifier,it shall generate a signal proportional
to the mean square A-weighted pressure with a
1±0.25 s exponential averaging time constant;
(j) the computation circuit shall integrate the mean
square A-weighted pressure and shall be capable of
doing so on each sensitivity setting for a minimum
DECEMBER 1996 451.16 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
of 6 minutes at the maximum sound level specified
for that sensitivity setting;
(k) if the computation circuit is not capable of meeting
the specification of clause 0) with the reference
therein to "6 minutes" changed to "60 minutes",
then the device shall be provided with a means to
indicate to the operator when the integration capa-
bility has been exceeded;
(1) if the computational circuit is of the sampling(digi-
tal)type,sampling shall take place at least twice per
second;
(m) the computation circuit shall operate over the us-
able dynamic range of the instrument with a linear-
ity of±1 dB for any sound with a ratio of peak
pressure to root mean square pressure up to 3(crest
factor up to 3);
(n) an operator-activated switch shall be provided to
inhibit integration or,if the instrument has an inter-
nal elapsed time clock, to inhibit both integration
and accumulation of time;
(o) the combination of windscreen, microphone,
A-weighting network, amplifier and computation
circuit shall have a usable dynamic range extend-
ing at least from 50 dBA to 90 dBA and the manu-
facturer shall specify the usable dynamic range;
(p) the instrument maybe provided with more than one
sensitivity setting and the manufacturer shall spec-
ify the minimum and maximum input sound level
for each sensitivity setting;
(q) if the maximum sound level specified for any sensi-
tivity setting is less than 100 dBA,the system shall in-
clude a means of indicating to the operator that the
maximum input sound level for that sensitivity set-
ting has been exceeded and such indication shall be
maintained until cancelled by the operator;
(r) the display shall indicate either,
(i) an output proportional to the integrated mean
square A-weighted pressure,or
KITCHENER 451.17 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
(ii) the integrated mean square A-weighted pres-
sure divided by the duration of the period of
time for which the equivalent sound level is to
be determined, or
(iii) the equivalent sound level for the period of
time for which the equivalent sound level is to
be determined;
(s) it shall be possible to read from the display or to
calculate from the reading of the display,the equiv-
alent sound level to a resolution of±1 dB over the
usable dynamic range of the instrument for integra-
tion times from 20 minutes to 60 minutes;
(t) if the indication of the display is as described in
subclause(ii) or (iii) of clause(r), the instrument
shall include an elapsed-time clock;
(u) the complete instrument shall follow the recom-
mendations and meet the specifications of sub-
clauses 7.4,7.5,7.6,7.7,7.8 and 79 ofIEC 123;and
(v) the instrument shall include a means of determin-
ing whether the battery of the instrument if any,has
sufficient life to permit proper operation for a pe-
riod of at least one hour.
7. Type A Integrating Sound Level Meter
(1)Purpose
(a) An Integrating Sound Level Meter is a sound level
meter which is intended to be used for the measure-
ment of sound over a period of time, such that the
equivalent sound level (Leq) of the sound may be
obtained.
(b) The Type B Integrating Sound Level Meter is speci-
fied with sufficient dynamic range and measure-
ment precision to measure equivalent sound levels
of general sounds that exceed limitations set out in
this by-law.
(c) Either a Type A or a Type B Integrating Sound
Level Meter may be used for most such applica-
tions,but a Type A Integrating Sound Level Meter
must be used when the sound under study is
Quasi-Steady Impulsive Sound(seeNPC-103-Pro-
DECEMBER 1996 451.18 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
cedures, Sections 3 and 4)or when the operational
dynamic range greatly exceeds 40 dB.
(2) General Description
The tolerances specified for the microphone,weight-
ing and amplifier of a Type A Integrating Sound
Level Meter are the same as those specified for a
General Purpose Sound Level Meter in section 3 of
this Publication. The computational portions of the
instrument must operate within a net accuracy of±l
dB for time periods of 20 minutes to one hour over a
dynamic range of at least 80 dB with test signals hav-
ing a crest factor(as defined in IEC 179A)up to 5.
An operator activated switch is included to inhibit both the
integration and time summation functions.
(3) Specifications
A sound level meter which meets the following
specifications is a Type A Integrating Sound Level
Meter:
(a) the sound level meter shall meet the specifications
of a Type B Integrating Sound Level Meter;
(b) the instrument shall be provided with an internal
elapsed-time clock;
(c) for each sensitivity setting of the instrument, the
amplifier shall have a power handling capacity at
least 14 dB greater than the maximum sound level
specified for that sensitivity setting;
(d) the computation circuit shall operate over the us-
able dynamic range of the instrument with a linear-
ity of±ldB for any sound with a ratio of peak
pressure to root mean square pressure up to 5(Crest
Factor up to 5); and
(e) the combination of windscreen, microphone,
A-weighting network, amplifier and computation
circuit shall have a usable dynamic range extending
at least from 40 dBA to 120 dBA.
8. Vibration Velocity Detector
(1) Purpose
A Vibration Velocity Detector is a device intended
KITCHENER 451.19 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
to be used for the measurement of the peak particle
velocity of a solid surface.
(2) Specifications
A device which meets the following specifications
is a Vibration Velocity Detector:
(a) the device shall include either a transducer which
responds to the total vibration vector or three trans-
ducers which have their axes of maximum sensitiv-
ity mutually orthogonal±1;
(b) where three transducers are used to measure three
mutually orthogonal components of vibration, the
response of any one of the transducers to vibration
in the plane normal to its axis of maximum sensitiv-
ity shall be less than 10%of its response to the same
vibration along its axis of maximum sensitivity;
(c) the output of the device shall be proportional to the
velocity of the surface on which the transducer is,
or the transducers are, mounted and the output of
the device shall be in such form that the device indi-
cates,or can be used to calculate,the peak particle
velocity in the frequency range of from 5 Hz to 500
Hz over a range of peak particle velocity of from
0.25 cm/s to 10 cm/s with a tolerance of±10%;and
(d) it shall be possible to field-calibrate the device with
an accuracy of±5%using either a reference electri-
cal signal in series with the equivalent transducer
impedance or a reference vibration source.
9. Acoustic Calibrator
(1) Purpose
An Acoustic Calibrator is an electro-mechanical or
mechanical device which produces sound of a
known frequency and which, when coupled to a
sound level meter,produces a predictable response
in the sound level meter if the sound level meter is
operating properly at the calibration frequency.
(2) Specifications
A device,capable ofproducing sound,which meets
the following specifications is an Acoustic
Calibrator:
DECEMBER 1996 451.20 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
(a) the device shall be capable of being physically at-
tached to a sound level meter in such a way that the
device and the sound level meter are"acoustically
coupled",that is,sound from the device is transmit-
ted through the air by way of a chamber formed by
the attachment of the device to the microphone of
the sound level meter;
(b) the device shall produce sound of a stated fre-
quency,within a frequency tolerance of±5%;
(c) the manufacturer of the device shall provide with
the device,any data required in order to determine
the sound level reading which should be indicated
on the sound level meter when calibrated for those
microphone and sound level meter types with
which the manufacturer recommends the device be
used.Where additional accessories must be used to
provide this sound level reading,the manufacturer
shall state that they must be used;
(d) the maximum tolerance in the sound pressure level
generated by the device when coupled to the micro-
phone shall apply over an atmospheric pressure
range of 87 kPa to 107 kPa, and shall be±0.5 dB
over the temperature range of from 0°C to 40° C
and ±1.0 dB over the temperature range of from
-10°C to 50°C;
(e) if the device is battery powered, means for check-
ing the battery condition shall be included with the
device;
(f) the following data shall be provided with the device
by the manufacturer,
(i)the nominal sound pressure level produced,
(ii)the nominal frequency at which the device op-
erates,
(iii) the ranges of temperature and atmospheric
pressure over which the device is intended to
operate, and the applicable overall sound
pressure level tolerance for these ranges.
KITCHENER 451.21 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
I ABLE 102-2
Permissible Tolerances on Microphone Sensitivity
Over an Angle of±30°
Frequency Hz Permissible Tolerances dB
A* B**
31.5-500 +1 +1
1000 +1 +1
2000 +2 + 1 -2
4000 +4 + 1 -4
8000 +10 + 1 - 10
* COLUMN A: The microphone is mounted on the sound level meter.
"COLUMN B: The microphone is physically separated from the sound
level meter but electrically connected thereto.
TABLE 102-3
Maximum Wind Induced Sound Level Indication
Using A-weighting
and Slow Response(where available)
Wind Speed dBA
15 kin/h 41
20 kin/h 48
25 kin/h 53
DECEMBER 1996 451.22 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
PUBLICATION NPC-103
Procedures
1. Scope
This Publication comprises the various measurement proce-
dures to be used in connection with other Publications which
provide limits or standards for sound or vibration.Several of the
procedures adopted are those of nationally or internationally
recognized agencies.Table 103-I lists the measurement proce-
dures which are included in this Publication.
TABLE 103-1
NCP-103
Section Type of Measurement Procedure
3 Steady or impulsive sound Ministry
4 Varying sound Ministry
5 Sound and vibration from blasting Ministry
6 Powered mobile construction equipment SAE J88a
7 Pneumaticequipmen MEMAC
8 Small engines SAE J1046
9 Trucks with governed diesel engines CSA
Z 107.22-M
2. Technical Definitions
The technical terms used in a procedure shall have the meaning
given either in that procedure or in Publication NPC-101-Tech-
nical Definitions.
3. Procedure for Measurement of Steady or Impulsive Sound
(1)(a)Classification
For the purposes of this procedure sounds can con-
veniently be placed in four mutually exclusive cat-
egories as follows:
(i) impulsive sounds, other than Quasi-Steady
Impulsive Sounds,such as,but not limited to,
the sound from gunshots, certain explosive
pest control devices and certain industrial
metal working operations(e.g. forging,ham-
mering,punching,stamping,cutting,forming
and moulding);
KITCHENER 451.23 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
(ii) Quasi-Steady Impulsive Sounds, such as,but
not limited to, the sound from pavement
breakers,riveting guns,ineffectively muffled
internal combustion engines or ineffectively
muffled air compressors;
(iii)buzzing sounds,such as,but not limited to,the
sounds from positive displacement blowers,
chain saws, small combustion engines and
concrete finishers;
(iv) all other sounds.
(b)Application
This procedure applies to measurements at a point
of reception of:
(i) sound of a type mentioned in category(i) or
(ii)of clause(a); and
(ii) sound of type mentioned in categories(iii)or
(iv)of clause(a),which is always higher than
the permissible level or which, when the
sound is present,does not vary in level over a
range of more than 6 dB during the period of
observation.
(2)Instrumentation
(a) Sound Level Meter
(i) An Impulse Sound Level Meter shall be used
for the measurement of sound in category(i),
(ii)or(iii)of clause 3(l)(a).
(ii) A General Purpose Sound Level Meter shall
be used for the measurement of sound in cate-
gory (iv) of clause 3(l) (a). NOTE: An Inte-
grating Sound Level Meter may be used for
the measurement of sound in category(iv) of
clause 3(l)(a),but the procedure set out in sec-
tion 4 -Procedure for Measurement of Vary-
ing Sound must be used.
(b) Calibrator
An Acoustic Calibrator shall be used.
DECEMBER 1996 451.24 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
(c) Windscreen
A windscreen shall be used in all outdoor measure-
ments.
(3)Measurement Location
For sound transmitted solely through air,the measurement loca-
tion shall be one or more of the following points of reception:
(a) a location out-of-doors where a person may be ex-
posed to the sound; or
(b the plane of an exterior door or window of a room
in which a person may be exposed to the sound,
where the door or window is open.
(4)Use of Instrumentation
(a) Battery Check
If the sound level meter is battery powered the con-
dition of the battery shall be checked after the meter
has been allowed to warm up and stabilize.The bat-
tery condition shall be rechecked at least once per
hour during a series of measurements and at the
conclusion of such measurements.The meter shall
not be used unless the battery condition is con-
firmed to be within the range recommended by the
manufacturer for proper operation.
(b) Calibration
The sound level meter shall be calibrated after the
meter has been allowed to warm up and stabilize,at
least once per hour during a series of measurements
and at the conclusion of such measurements.
(c) Sound Level Meter Settings
Measurements shall be taken using the following
response settings:
(i) Impulse Response(dBAI)
The impulse response and A-weighting shall
be used for impulsive sound in category(i)of
clause 3(1)(a).An`impulse hold'facility may
be used if available on the meter.
(ii) Slow Response(dBA)
The slow response and A-weighting shall be
KITCHENER 451.25 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
used for sound in categories(ii),(iii)or(iv)of
clause 3 (1)(a).
(d) Instrument Configuration
(i) Reflective Surfaces
The microphone shall be located not less than
1 m above the ground,not less than 1 m from
any sound reflective surface except for the
purposes of clause 3(3)(b) and not less than
arm's length from the body of the person op-
erating the meter.Not more than one person,
other than the operator of the meter, shall be
within 7 m of the microphone and that person
shall be behind the operator of the meter.For
the case of 3(3)(b)the microphone shall be in
the middle of the aperture located not less than
15 cm from the window frame or door frame.
(ii) Microphone Orientation
The microphone shall be orientated such that
the sound to be measured is incident at an an-
gle recommended by the microphone manu-
facturer for flattest frequency response in a
free field.
(e) Measurement- Slow Response
(i) Readings Taken
For sound in categories (ii), (iii) or (iv) of
clause 3 (1)(a),a minimum of three observa-
tions with a minimum observation time of 15s
each shall be made. The observed average
reading for each of the observations shall be
noted as well as the minimum and maximum
of the range of sound levels during each ob-
servation period. If the difference between
any two observed average readings is greater
than 3 dB, a minimum of six observations
shall be made.For the purpose of adjustments
for intermittency the duration of the sound in
any one hour shall be noted.
(ii) Readings Reported
The arithmetic mean of the observed average
readings shall be reported, rounded to the
DECEMBER 1996 451.26 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
nearest decibel. Adjustments for intermit-
tence and quality of sound shall be made in ac-
cordance with Publication NPC-104 - Sound
Level Adjustments,and the result shall be re-
ported. The result is the one hour equivalent
sound level(Leq)of the sound under study for
any one hour period during which the read-
ings were taken pursuant to subclause(i).
(iii) Wide Variation of Sound Levels
If, in making observations pursuant to sub-
clause (i), there is a difference of more than
6dB between the lowest and highest values of
the observed ranges of sound levels,this pro-
cedure shall not be used unless the lower limit
of each such range is above the maximum per-
missible level. Instead, the procedure set out
in Section 4 -Procedure for Measurement of
Varing Sound at a point of reception,shall be
used.
(f) Measurement-Impulse Response-
Frequency Impulses
(i) Readings Taken
For sound in category(i)of clause 3(1)(a)not
less than 20 impulses shall be measured
within a continuous period of 20 minutes and
each measurement taken shall be reported.
(ii) Extension of Time
Where a minimum of 20 impulses cannot be
measured within a continuous period of 20
minutes pursuant to subclause(i)the time pe-
riod maybe extended to 2 hours if an impulse
occurred in each of the four consecutive peri-
ods of five minutes each during the initial 20
minute measurement period.
(iii) Level Reported
The Logarithmic Mean Impulse Sound Level
(LLM)of the 20 or more measurements shall
be calculated and reported to the nearest deci-
bel. The Logarithmic Mean Impulse Sound
Level is a valid and effective sound level for
KITCHENER 451.27 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
any one hour period during which readings
were taken pursuant to subclauses(i)and(ii).
(g) Measurement- Impulse Response - Single Event
Readings Taken and Reported
For impulse sounds in category (i) of clause
3(1)(a),that occur as a single,seemingly independ-
ent events not normally measurable using the pro-
cedure set out in clause(f) for frequent impulses,
each impulse shall be independently measured and
each impulse sound level reported to the nearest
decibel.
(h) Variation in Calibration
Measurements shall not be reported if the sound
level meter calibration has changed more than 0.5
dB from the previous calibration.
(i) Weather conditions
(i) Wind
Measurements shall not be taken unless the
wind-induced sound level is more than 10 dB
below the measured levels.Reference should
be made to Publication NPC - 102 - Instru-
mentation,particularly Table 102-3.
(ii) Humidity
Measurements shall not betaken if the relative
humidity is above the maximum for which the
meter specification is guaranteed by the man-
ufacturer(normally 90%).
(iii)Precipitation
Measurements shall not be taken during pre-
cipitation.
(iv) Temperature
Measurements shall not be taken when air
temperature is outside the range for which
specification of the instrument is guaranteed
by the manufacturer. (Normally, only the
lower temperature limit is significant).
(5)Documentation
The following represents the minimum information which shall
be contained in a report of an investigation where the above
DECEMBER 1996 451.28 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
procedure was used. (Adapted from CSA 2107.2-1973 Meth-
ods for the Measurement of Sound Pressure Levels).
(a)Acoustic Environment
(i) Location and description of sound sources.
(ii) Dimensioned sketch including photographs,
if possible,of the location of the sound source
and the point of reception, showing all build-
ings,trees, structures and other sound reflec-
tive surfaces.
(iii)Physical and topographical description of the
ground surface.
(iv) Meterological conditions prevailing at the
time of investigation including approximate
local wind speed in km/h,wind direction, air
temperature in °C, approximate relative hu-
midity and extent of cloud cover.
(b)Instrumentation
All equipment used for making sound level mea-
surements shall be listed,including:
(i) type,model and serial number of sound level
meter;
(ii) type,model and serial number of microphone;
(iii) type, model and serial number of Acoustic
Calibrator;
(iv) extension cables and additional amplifier, if
used.
(c)Acoustical Data
The measurement details shall be described, in-
cluding:
(i) the location of the microphone,using a sketch
if necessary;
(ii) measurements or readings obtained, preferably
listed in tabular form, referencing location on a
sketch or map,time periods involved, and relevant
data required for making calculations;
KITCHENER 451.29 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
(iii)adjustments made for quality of sound or intermit-
tence;
(iv)details of any calculations;
(v)comparison with applicable sound levellimits,stan-
dards or guidelines.
4. Procedure for Measurement of Varing Sound
(1)(a)Classification
For the purposes of this procedure sounds can con-
veniently be placed in four mutually exclusive cat-
egories as follows:
(i) impulsive sounds, other than Quasi-Steady Impul-
sive Sounds, such as,but not limited to,the sound
from gunshots, certain explosive pest control de-
vices and certain industrial metal working opera-
tions (eg. forging, hammering, punching,
stamping,cutting, forming and moulding);
(ii) Quasi-Steady Impulsive Sounds, such as, but not
limited to,the sound from pavement breakers,riv-
eting guns, ineffectively muffled internal combus-
tion engines or ineffectively muffled air
compressors;
(iii) buzzing sounds, such as, but not limited to the
sound from positive displacement blowers, chain
saws, small combustion engines and concrete fin-
ishers;
(iv)all other sounds.
(b) Application
This procedure applies to measurements at a point
of reception of continuous or intermittent sound
mentioned in category(ii),(iii)or(iv)of clause(a).
(2)Instrumentation
(a) Integrating Sound Level Meter
An Integrating Sound Level Meter shall be used
which is appropriate for the sound to be measured:
(i) Either a Type A or Type B Integrating Sound
Level Meter maybe used for the measurement
of sound in category(iv)of clause 4(1)(a);
DECEMBER 1996 451.30 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
(ii) A Type A Integrating Sound Level Meter
shall be used for the measurement of sound in
categories(ii)or(iii)of clause 4(l)(a).
(b) Calibrator
An Acoustic Calibrator shall be used.
(c) Windscreen
A windscreen shall be used in all outdoor measure-
ments.
(3)Measurement Location
(a) Air-Borne Sound
For sound transmitted solely through air,the mea-
surement location shall be one or more of the fol-
lowing points of reception:
(i)a location out-of-doors where a person may be
exposed to the sound; or
(ii) the plane of an exterior door or window of a
room in which a person maybe exposed to the
sound,where the door or window is open.
(4)Use of Instrumentation
(a) Battery Check
If the Integrating Sound Level Meter uses a battery,
the condition of the battery shall be checked before
each measurement, and measurement shall not
commence unless the battery has sufficient life re-
maining to permit proper operation for a period of
at least one hour.
(b) Calibration
The Integrating Sound Level Meter shall be cali-
brated before and after each measurement period.
(c) Instrument Configuration
(i) Reflective Surfaces
The microphone shall be located not less than
1 m above the ground,not less than 1 m from
any sound reflective surface except for the
purposes ofsubclause 4(3)(a)(ii)and not less
than arm's length from the body of the person
operating the meter. Not more than one per-
KITCHENER 451.31 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
son,other than the operator of the meter,shall
be within 7 m of the microphone and that per-
son shall be behind the operator of the meter.
For the case of subclause 4(3)(a)(ii)the mi-
crophone shall be in the middle of the aperture
located not less than 15 cm from the window
frame or door frame.
(ii) Microphone Orientation
The microphone shall be oriented such that
the sound to be measured is incident at an an-
gle recommended by the microphone manu-
facturer for flattest frequency response in a
free field.
(d) Extraneous Sources
When measuring the sound from a source,integra-
tion shall from time to time be inhibited by the op-
erator immediately when the received sound is
dominated by sound from a source other than the
source under study and it shall remain inhibited
while such a condition persists and for at least 10
seconds thereafter. While integration is inhibited
the elapsed time used to calculate the equivalent
sound level shall not be allowed to accumulate.
(e) Timing
If the Integrating Sound Level Meter is not pro-
vided with an internal elapsed-time clock,the oper-
ator shall accumulate the elapsed time during the
measurement period by means of a stop-watch or
other time measuring device.
(f) Readings
(i) Stationary Source
When measuring the sound from a stationary
source, measurements to be used in calculat-
ing results shall be taken during a continuous
period not in excess of one hour and,for pur-
poses of calculation and reporting of results,
the accumulated elapsed time of measurement
as obtained in accordance with clause (d) is
deemed to be one hour if the accumulated time
is 20 minutes or more.Measurements contain-
ing information from an accumulated time pe-
DECEMBER 1996 451.32 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
riod of less than 20 minutes are insufficient for
purposes of calculating the equivalent sound
level(Leg)of a stationary source.
(ii) Road Traffic Noise Sources
When measuring the sound from road traffic
the accumulated elapsed time obtained in ac-
cordance with clause(d)shall not be less than
twenty minutes and the actual accumulated
elapsed time of measurement shall be used for
purposes of calculation.
(g) Adjustments
Adjustments for quality of sound shall be made in
accordance with Publication NPC-104 - Sound
Level Adjustments and the result reported.No ad-
justment shall be made for intermittence.
(h) Variation in Calibration
A measurement shall not be reported if the Integrat-
ing Sound Level Meter calibration after the mea-
surement period is more than 0.5 dB different from
that before the measurement commenced.
(i) Weather Conditions
(i) Wind
Measurements shall not be made unless the
wind-induced sound level is more than 10 dB
below the measured levels.Reference should
be made to Publication NPC-102-Instrumen-
tation and particularly Table 102-3.
(ii) Humidity
Measurements shall not betaken if the relative
humidity is above the maximum for which the
meter specification is guaranteed by the man-
ufacturer(normally 90%).
(iii)Precipitation
Measurements shall not be taken during pre-
cipitation.
(iv)Temperature
Measurements shall not be taken when the air
temperature is outside the range for which the
specification of the instrument is guaranteed
KITCHENER 451.33 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
by the manufacturer. (Normally, only the
lower temperature limit is significant.)
(j)Reading Reported
(i) For sound from a stationary source,the value
to be reported based on measurements made
during the accumulated elapsed time of 20
minutes or more and the time period for calcu-
lation which is one hour is,after adjustment in
accordance with clause (g), the one hour
equivalent sound level(Leg)of the sound un-
der study for any one hour period during
which measurements were taken pursuant to
subclause 4(4)(f)(i).
(ii) For sound from road traffic,the value to be re-
ported based on measurements made during
the accumulated elapsed time of 20 minutes or
more and the time period for calculation
which is the actual accumulated elapsed time,
is the one hour equivalent sound level(Leq)of
the sound under study for any one hour period
during which measurements were taken pur-
suant to subclause 4(4)(f)(ii).
(iii) The one hour equivalent sound level (Leg)
shall be reported to the nearest decibel.
(5)Documentation
The following represents the minimum information which shall
be contained in a report of an investigation where the above
procedure was used. (Adapted from CSA 2107.2-1973 Meth-
ods for the Measurement of Sound-Pressure Levels.)
(a)Acoustic Environment
(i) Location and description of sound sources.
(ii) A list of the types of extraneous noise sources
which caused integration to be inhibited dur-
ing measurement.
(iii)Dimensioned sketch including photographs,if
possible, of the location of the sound source
and the point of reception, showing all build-
DECEMBER 1996 451.34 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
ings,trees,structures and any other sound re-
flective surfaces.
(iv) Physical and topographical description of the
ground surface.
(v) Meteorological conditions prevailing at the
time of the investigation including approxi-
mate local wind speed in km/h, wind direc-
tion, air temperature in °C, approximate
relative humidity and extent of cloud cover.
(b)Instrumentation
All the equipment used for making sound level
measurements shall be listed,including:
(i) type, model and serial number of Integrating
Sound Level Meter;
(ii) type,model and serial number of microphone;
(iii) type, model and serial number of Acoustic
Calibrator;
(iv) extension cables and additional amplifier, if
used.
(a)Acoustical Data
The measurement details shall be described, in-
cluding:
(i) the location of the microphone,using a sketch
if necessary;
(ii) the continuous time period of observation;
(iii) the accumulated elapsed time of measurement
following the procedure of clauses 4 (4) (d)
and(e);
(iv) the Integrating Sound Level Meter reading or
output and any other relevant data required for
calculations;
(v) adjustments made for quality of sound;
(vi) details of all calculations;
KITCHENER 451.35 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
(vii)the equivalent sound levels obtained,prefera-
bly listed in tabular form,referencing location
on a sketch map;
(viii)comparison with applicable sound levellim-
its, standards or guidelines.
5. Procedure for Measurement of Sound and Vibration Due to
Blasting Operations
(1) Application
This procedure applies to the measurement of
sound (concussion) and vibration due to blasting
operations.
(2) Sound
(a) Instrumentation
(i) Measuring Device
A Peak Pressure Level Detector shall be used.
(ii) Calibrator
An Acoustic Calibrator shall be used;
(iii) Windscreen
A windscreen shall be used in all outdoor
measurements.
(b) Measurement Location
The measurement location shall be at a point ofre-
ception out-of-doors within 7 m of a building.
(c) Use of Instrumentation
(i) Battery Check
If the measuring device is battery powered,
the condition of the battery shall be checked
after the device has been allowed to warm up
and stabilize and after each measurement has
been made. The device shall not be used un-
less the battery condition is confirmed to be
within the range recommended by the manu-
facturer for proper operation.
(ii) Calibration
The measuring device shall be calibrated after
it has been allowed to warm up and stabilize
and after each measurement has been made.
DECEMBER 1996 451.36 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
(iii) Meter Setting
The measuring device shall be set to read the
peak pressure level using linear response and
a `hold' facility,if available.
(d) Instrument Configuration
(i) Reflective Surfaces
The microphone shall be located not less than
1 m above the ground,not less than 1 m from
any sound reflective surface and not less than
arm's length from the body of the person op-
erating the device.Not more than one person,
other than the operator of the meter, shall be
within 7 m of the microphone and that person
shall be behind the operator of the meter.
(ii) Microphone Orientation
The microphone shall be oriented such that
the concussion wave to be measured is inci-
dent at an angle recommended by the micro-
phone manufacturer for flattest frequency
response in a free field.
(e) Readings
(i) Peak Pressure Level
The value of peak pressure level reported
shall be given to the nearest decibel.
(ii) Variation in Calibration
A measurement shall not be reported if the
meter calibration after the measurement is
more than 0.5 dB different from that before
the measurement.
(iii) Battery Deterioration
A measurement shall not be reported if the
battery condition after the measurement is not
within the range recommended by the manu-
facturer for proper operation.
(f) Weather Conditions
(i) Wind
Measurements shall not be reported unless the
wind-induced sound pressure level is more
KITCHENER 451.37 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
than 10 dB below the measured peak pressure
level. Reference should be made to Publica-
tion NPC-102-Instrumentation.
(ii)Humidity
Measurements shall not betaken if the relative
humidity is above the maximum for which the
meter specification is guaranteed by the man-
ufacturer(normally 90%)
(iii)Precipitation
Measurements shall not be taken during pre-
cipitation.
(iv)Temperature
Measurements shall not be taken when the air
temperature is outside the range for which the
meter specification is guaranteed by the man-
ufacturer. (Normally only the lower tempera-
ture limit is significant.)
(3)Vibration
(a)Instrumentation
(i) Measuring Device
A Vibration Velocity Detector shall be used.
(ii)Calibrator
An electrical reference signal of known volt-
age and frequency shall be used in the field for
calibration of the Vibration Velocity Detector
excluding the transducer. A reference vibra-
tion source shall be used for laboratory cali-
bration of the complete Vibration Velocity
Detector.
(b)Measurement Location
Vibration measurements shall be made at a point of
reception inside a building below grade or less than
I m above grade, preferably on a basement floor
close to an outside corner.
(c)Use of Instrumentation
(i) Battery Check
If the measuring device is battery powered,
the condition of the battery shall be checked
DECEMBER 1996 451.38 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
after the device has been allowed to warm up
and stabilize and after each measurement is
made.The device shall not be used unless the
battery condition is confirmed to be within the
range recommended by the manufacturer for
proper operation.
(ii) Calibration
Field calibration shall be carried out before
and after each measurement.Laboratory cali-
bration of the complete Vibration Velocity
Detector as used in the field, including the
transducer, shall be carried out not less than
once per calendar year and the results
certified.
(d)Instrument Configuration
(i) Mounting
The transducer shall be affixed to a part of the
structure so as to prevent movement of the
transducer relative to the structure. The pre-
ferred structural element is the basement floor
as indicated in clause(b).
(ii)Transducer Orientation
If three vector components of vibration veloc-
ity are recorded individually,it is preferable to
orient the transducers such that the three axes
of measurement are (a) vertical, (b) radial
(along the horizontal ine joining the location
of the blast to the location of measurement),
and(c) transverse(along a horizontal line at
right angles to the line joining the location of
the blast to the location of measurement).
(e)Readings
(i) Peak Particle Velocity
The peak particle velocity in cm/s shall be re-
ported.
(ii) Variation in Calibration
A measurement shall not be reported if cali-
bration after the measurement is more than
5% different from that before the
measurement.
KITCHENER 451.39 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
(iii) Battery Deterioration
A measurement shall not be reported if the
battery condition after the measurement is not
within the range recommended by the manu-
facturer for proper operation.
(4)Documentation
The following represents the minimum informa-
tion which shall be contained in a report of an in-
vestigation where the above procedure was used.
(a)Description of Area
(i) Location and description of the blasting oper-
ation.
(ii) Dimensioned sketch including photographs,
if possible,of the location of the blasting oper-
ation, the nearest premises and the measure-
ment location.
(iii) Description of the measurement location.
(iv) Physical and topographical description of the
ground surface.
(v) Meteorological conditions at the time of the
investigation, including approximate wind
speed in km/h,wind direction,air temperature
in degrees Celsius, approximate relative hu-
midity,degree of cloud cover and whether or
not a condition of thermal inversion
prevailed.
(b)Instrumentation
All the equipment used for making sound and vi-
bration measurements shall be listed,including:
(i) type, model and serial number of Peak Pres-
sure Level Detector;
(ii) type,model and serial number of microphone;
(iii) type, model and serial number of Acoustic
Calibrator;
(iv)windscreen;
DECEMBER 1996 451.40 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
(v) extension cables and additional amplifiers, if
used;
(vi) type, model and serial number of Vibration
Velocity Detector;
(vii)type,model and serial number of transducers.
(viii) type, model and serial number of vibration
calibrator.
(c) Sound and Vibration Data
The measurement details shall be described, in-
cluding:
(i) the location where measurements were taken,
the timeperiod involved and the orientation of
instrumentation using a sketch,if necessary;
(ii) details of all calculations;
(iii)the peak pressure level in dB and/or peak par-
ticle velocity in cm/s;
(iv)comparison with applicable peakpressure lim-
its and/or peak particle velocity limits.
6. Exterior Sound Level Measurement Procedure For Powered
Mobile Construction Equipment- SAE J88a
SAE J88a Recommended Practice is adopted by the Ministry
with the following change:
Where ANSI Type I sound level meter specification is referred
to, reference shall be made instead to Publication IEC-179
(1973) for Precision sound level meters. (General Purpose
Sound Level Meter)
7. MEMAC Test Code For the Measurement of Sound From
Pneumatic Equipment
The MEMAC Test Code For The Measurement of Sound From
Pneumatic Equipment is adopted by the Ministry with the fol-
lowing additional requirement:
For measurement ofpercussive machines the sound level meter
used shall meet the specifications of IEC Publications 179 and
179A(1973). (Impulse Sound Level Meter)
KITCHENER 451.41 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
8. Exterior Sound Level Measurement Procedure For Small En-
gine Powered Equipment- SAE J 1046
SAE J 1046-Recommended Practice,is adopted by the Minis-
try with the following changes:
(1) Where ANSI Type 1 sound level meter specifica-
tion is referred to,reference shall be made instead
to IEC Publication 179 and 179A(1973). (Impulse
Sound Level Meter)
(2) Replace clause 3.1.1 with the following:
The minimum dimensions of the measurement
zone are defined as a path of travel 1.2 m wide by 14
m long plus an adjacent area having the base along
the edge of the path of travel and the apex 7 m from
the midpoint of the base.
(3) Replace Fig. 1 with Fig. 103-1,hereof.
(4) In section 3.3 Measurements,all references to 25 ft.
shall be changed to 7 m.
9. Procedure for Measurement of the Maximum Exterior Sound
Level of Stationary Trucks with Governed Diesel Engines-CSA
Z 107.22-M 1977
(1)CSA-Z 107.22-M 1977 standard is adopted by the Min-
istry with the following change:
A General Purpose Sound Level Meter shall be used.
DECEMBER 1996 451.42 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
R 4m
7m 1MINIMUM 1.2m
EQUIPMENI"PATH
1n
R
Z MICROPHONE
3 m LOCA"LION
R
OBSERVERS
R
MEASUREMEN"F
LOCA"LION
REP.US EPA 550/9-74-011 R=30 m MINIMUM RADIUS
TESI"SII"E CONEIOUATION FOR EX"FE'RIOR SOUND LEVEL MEASUREMENI"
PROCEDURE FOR SMALL ENGINER POWERED EQUIPMENT-SAE 1 1046
FRL 103-1
KITCHENER 451.43 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
PUBLICATION NPC-104
Sound Level Adjustments
1. Scope
This Publication refers to the adjustment of a sound level ob-
tained following the procedures set out in either section 3 or 4 of
NPC-103 -Procedures.
2. Technical Definitions
The technical terms used in this Publication are defined in Pub-
lication NPC-101 -Technical Definitions.
3. Intermittence
If a sound is intermittent,the following adjustment shall be sub-
tracted from the observed value:
Adjustment=10 log I x
where x is the fraction of an hour
for which the sound persists
Such sound level adjustments are approximated in Table 104-1.
4. Adjustment for Special Quality of Sound
(1) Tonality
If a sound has a pronounced audible tonal quality
such as a whine,screech,buzz,or hum then the ob-
served value shall be increased by 5.
(2) Cyclic Variations
If a sound has an audible cyclic variation in sound
level such as beating or other amplitude modula-
tion then the observed value shall be increased by
5.
(3) Quasi-Steady Impulsive Sound
If a sound is Quasi-Steady Impulsive Sound then
the observed value shall be increased by 10.
(4) One Adjustment Only
An adjustment maybe made under one only of sub-
sections(1), (2)and(3),providing that,if subsec-
tion (3) applies, it shall be used in preference to
subsection(1)or subsection(2).
DECEMBER 1996 451.44 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
TABLE 104-1
Adjustment for Intermittence
Duration of Sound In One Hour Adjustment
(Minutes)
40-60 0
20-39 3
10- 19 6
5 -9 9
3 -4 12
1 -2 15
less than 1 20
KITCHENER 451.45 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
SOUND LEVEL LIMITS FOR
STATIONARY SOURCES IN
CLASS 1 & 2 AREAS (URBAN)
PUBLICATION NPC-205
OCTOBER 1995
Ministry of Environment and Energy
DECEMBER 1996 451.46 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
Publication NPC-205
1. Scope
This Publication establishes sound level limits for stationary
sources such as industrial and commercial establishments or an-
cillary transportation facilities,affecting points of reception in
Class 1 and 2 Areas (Urban). The limits apply to noise com-
plaint investigations carried out in order to determine potential
violation of Section 14 of the Environmental Protection Act.
The limits also apply to the assessment of planned stationary
sources of sound in compliance with section 9 of the Environ-
mental Protection Act,and under the provisions of the Aggre-
gate Resources Act and the Environmental Assessment Act.
This Publication does not address sound and vibration
produced by blasting;blasting in quarries and surface mines is
considered in Reference[7].
The Publication includes an Annex,which provides additional
details,definitions and rationale for the sound levellimits.
2. References
Reference is made to the following publications:
[1]NPC-101 -Technical Definitions
[2]NPC-102-Instrumentation
[3]NPC-103 -Procedures
[4]NPC- 104- Sound Level Adjustments
[6]NPC-206-Sound Levels due to Road Traffic
[7]NPC-119-Blasting
[8]NPC-216-Residential Air Conditioning Devices
[9]NPC-232- Sound Level Limits for Stationary Sources in Class 3
Areas(Rural)
[10]NPC-233-Information to be Submitted for Approval of Station-
ary Sources of Sound
[12] ORNAMENT, Ontario Road Noise Analysis Method for Envi-
ronment and Transportation, Technical Document, Ontario
Ministry of the Environment,ISBN 0-7729-6376, 1989
KITCHENER 451.47 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
References [1] to [4] and [7] can be found in the Model Municipal
Noise Control By-law, Ontario Ministry of the Environment,
Final Report,August 1978.
3. Technical Definitions
"Ambient sound level"means Background sound level.
"Background sound level"is the sound level that is present in the envi-
ronment,produced by noise sources other than the source under
impact assessment. Highly intrusive short duration noise
caused by a source such as an aircraft fly-over or a train pass-by
is excluded from the determination of the background sound
level.
"Class 1 Area"means an area with an acoustical environment typical
of a major population centre, where the background noise is
dominated by the urban hum.
"Class 2 Area"means an area with an acoustical environment that has
qualities representative of both Class 1 and Class 3 Areas,and
in which a low ambient sound level,normally occurring only
between 23:00 and 07:00 hours in Class 1 Areas,will typically
be realized as early as 19:00 hours.
Other characteristics which may indicate the presence of Class 2 Area
include:
• absence of urban hum between 19:00 and 23:00
hours;
• evening background sound level defined by natural
environment and infrequent human activity; and
• no clearly audible sound from stationary sources
other than from those under impact assessment.
"Class 3 Area"means a rural area with an acoustical environment that
is dominated by natural sounds having little or no road traffic,
such as the following:
• a small community with less than 1000 population;
• agricultural area;
• a rural recreational area such as a cottage or a resort
area; or
• a wilderness area.
DECEMBER 1996 451.48 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
Other technical terms are defined in Reference[1]and in the Annex to
Publication NPC-205.
4. Establishment of Limits-Objective
The sound level limit at a point of reception must be established
based on the principle of"predictable worst case"noise impact.
In general,the limit is given by the background sound level at
the point of reception.The sound level limit must represent the
minimum background sound level that occurs or is likely to oc-
cur during the operation of the stationary source under impact
assessment.
5. Background Sound Levels
The time interval between the background sound level mea-
surement and the measurement of the sound level produced by
the stationary source under impact assessment should be mini-
mized as much as possible.Preferably,the two measurements
should be carried out within one hour of each other.
6. Sound Levels due to Stationary Sources
(1) Complaint Investigation of Stationary Sources The
One Hour Equivalent Sound Level (Leq) and/or
the Logarithmic Mean Impulse Sound Level
(LLM)produced by the stationary sources shall be
obtained by measurement performed in accordance
with Section 7.
(2) Approval of Stationary Sources
The One Hour Equivalent Sound Level (Leq)
and/or the Logarithmic Mean Impulse Sound Level
(LLM)produced by the stationary sources shall be
obtained by measurement or prediction. The esti-
mation of the Leq and/or LLM of the stationary
source under impact assessment shall reflect the
principle of"predictable worst case"noise impact.
The"predictable worst case"noise impact occurs
during the hour when the difference between the
predicted sound level produced by the stationary
source and the background sound level of the
natural environment is at a maximum.
7. Procedures
All sound level measurements and calculations shall be made in
accordance with References [3], [6]and[12].
KITCHENER 451.49 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
Sound from existing adjacent stationary sources may be included in the
determination of the background One Hour Equivalent Sound
Level (Leg) if such stationary sources of sound are not under
consideration for noise abatement by the Municipality or the
Ministry of Environment and Energy.
8. Sound Level Limits-General
(1) For impulsive sound,other than Quasi-Steady Im-
pulsive Sound,from a stationary source,the sound
level limit expressed in terms of the Logarithmic
Mean Impulse Sound Level (LEM) is the back-
ground One Hour Equivalent Sound Level (Leq)
typically caused by road traffic as obtained pursu-
ant to Section 6 for that point of reception.
(2) For sound from a stationary source, including
Quasi-Steady Impulsive Sound but not including
other impulsive sound, the sound level limit ex-
pressed in terms of the One Hour Equivalent Sound
Level (Leq) is the background One Hour Equiva-
lent Sound Level (Leg) typically caused by road
traffic as obtained pursuant to Section 6 for that
point of reception.
9. Sound Level Limits- Specific Impulsive Sounds
(1) For impulsive sound,other than Quasi-Steady Im-
pulsive Sound,from a stationary source which is an
industrial metal working operation (including but
not limited to forging, hammering, punching,
stamping, cutting, forming and moulding), the
sound level limit at a point of reception expressed
in terms of the Logarithmic Mean Impulse Sound
Level (LEM) is 60 dBAI, if the stationary source
were operating before January 1, 1980, and
otherwise is 50 dBAI.
(2) For impulsive sound,other than Quasi-Steady Im-
pulsive Sound, from a stationary source which is
the discharge of firearms on the premises of a li-
censed gun club,the sound level imit at a point of
reception expressed in terms of the Logarithmic
Mean Impulse Sound Level (LEM) is: 70 dBAI if
the gun club were operating before January 1,
1980;or 50 dBAI if the gun club began to operate
DECEMBER 1996 451.50 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
after January 1, 1980; or the LEM prior to expan-
sion. alteration or conversion.
(3) For impulsive sound,other than Quasi-Steady Im-
pulsive Sound, from a stationary source which is
not a blasting operation in a surface mine or quarry,
characterized by impulses which are so infrequent
that they cannot normally be measured using the
procedure for frequent impulses of Reference [3]
the sound level limit at a point of reception ex-
pressed in terms of the impulse sound level is 100
dBAI.
10. Sound Level Limits-Pest Control Devices
(1) For impulsive sound,other than Quasi-Steady Im-
pulsive Sound, from a pest control device em-
ployed solely to protect growing crops, the sound
level limit at a point of reception expressed in terms
of the Logarithmic Mean Impulse Sound Level
(LEM)is 70 dBAI.
(2) For sound, including Quasi-Steady Impulsive
Sound but not including other impulsive sound,
from a pest control device employed solely to pro-
tect growing crops,the sound level imit at a point
of reception expressed in terms of the One Hour
Equivalent Sound Level(Leg)is 60 dBA.
11. Prohibition-Pest Control Devices
The operation of a pest control device employed solely to pro-
tect growing crops outdoors during the hours of darkness,sun-
set to sunrise,is prohibited.
12. Pre-emption
The least restrictive sound level limit of Sections 8,9 and 10 ap-
plies.
13. Exclusion
No restrictions apply to a stationary source resulting in a One
Hour Equivalent Sound Level (Leq)lower than the minimum
Leq value for that time period, as specified in Table 205-1.
KITCHENER 451.51 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
TABLE 205-1
Minimum Values for One Hour Leq by Time of Day
One Hour Leq(dBA)
Time of Day Class 1 Area Class 2 Area
0700.1900 50 50
1900.2300 47 45
2300.0700 45 45
ANNEX PUBLICATION NPC-205
SOUND LEVEL LIMITS FOR STATIONARY SOURCES
IN CLASS 1 AND 2 AREAS(URBAN)
A.1. General
In general,noises are annoying because they are heard over and
above the level of the so-called"background" or surrounding
environmental noise climate at a particular location.The stan-
dard for environmental noise acceptability ofstationary sources
is therefore expressed as the difference between noise from the
source and the background noise.
The background noise is essentially made up of the road traffic
noise which creates an"urban hum".It may also include contri-
butions from existing industry or commercial activity adjacent
to the stationary source under investigation. Contributions of
these secondary noise sources are considered to be a part ofur-
ban hum and may be included in the measurements or calcula-
tion of the background sound levels,provided that they are not
under consideration for noise abatement by the Municipality or
the Ministry of Environment and Energy.
The sound level limits specified in Section 8 of Publication
NPC-205 represent the general limitation on noise produced by
stationary sources. Some noises, however, are annoying no
matter where or in what kind of environment they exist. High
level impulsive noises represent a special category and,conse-
quently,are restricted by an absolute limitation. Sections 9 and
DECEMBER 1996 451.52 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
10 of this Publication provide criteria of acceptability for
specific impulsive noise sources.
A.2. Application
The limits presented in Publication NPC-205 are designed for
the control of noise from sources located in industrial,commer-
cial or residential areas.The limits apply to points of reception
located in Class 1 and Class 2 Areas.
Sound level limits contained in Publication NPC-205 do not ap-
ply to the excluded noise sources listed in Section A.3.(2)and
neither do they apply to any equipment, apparatus or device
used in agriculture for food crop seeding,chemical spraying or
harvesting.In addition,several specific noise sources have been
addressed in separate Publications. Limits for residential air
conditioners are contained in Publication NPC-216-Residen-
tial Air Conditioning Devices,Reference[8]and the limits for
blasting operations in quarries and surface mines are contained
in Publication NPC-119 Blasting,Reference[7].
A.3. Stationary Source
The objective of the definition of a stationary source of sound is
to address sources such as industrial and commercial establish-
ments or ancillary transportation facilities. In order to further
clarify the scope of the definition,the following list identifies
examples of installations,equipment,activities or facilities that
are included and those that are excluded as stationary sources.
A.O Included Sources
Individual stationary sources such as:
Heating,ventilating and air conditioning(HVAC)
equipment;
Rotating machinery;
Impacting mechanical sources;
Generators;
Burnett;
Grain dryers.
Facilities, usually comprising many sources of sound. In this
case, the stationary source is understood to encompass all the
activities taking place within theproperty boundary of the facil-
ity.The following are examples of such facilities:
KITCHENER 451.53 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
Industrial facilities;
Commercial facilities;
Ancillary transportation facilities;
Aggregate extraction facilities;
Warehousing facilities;
Maintenance and repair facilities;
Snow disposal sites;
Routine loading and unloading facilities (supermarkets,
assembly plants,etc.).
Other sources such as:
Car washes;
Race tracks;
Firearm Ranges.
A.(2) Excluded Source
Specific sources or facilities:
Construction activities;
Transportation corridors,i.e.roadways and railways;
Residential air conditioning devices including air condi-
tioners and heat pumps;
Gas stations;
Auditory warning devices required or authorized by law
or in accordance with good safety practices;
Occasional movement of vehicles on the property such as
infrequent delivery of goods to convenience stores,
fast food restaurants, etc.
Other noise sources,normally addressed in a qualitative man-
ner in municipal noise by-laws:
The operation of auditory signalling devices,including but not
limited to the ringing ofbells or gongs and the blowing ofhoms
or sirens or whistles,or the production,reproduction or amplifi-
cation of any similar sounds by electronic means;
DECEMBER 19965 451.54 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
Noise produced by animals kept as domestic pets such as
dogs barking;
Tools and devices used by occupants for domestic pur-
poses such as domestic power tools, radios and
televisions, etc., or activities associated with do-
mestic situations such as domestic quarrels, noisy
parties,etc.;
Noise resulting from gathering of people at facilities such
as restaurants and parks.
Activities related to essential service and maintenance of public facili-
ties such as but not limited to roadways,parks and sewers,in-
cluding snow removal, road cleaning, road repair and
maintenance,lawn mowing and maintenance,sewage removal,
garbage collection,etc.
4. Predicable Worst Case Impact
The assessment of noise impact requires the determination of
the "predictable worst case" impact. The "predictable worst
case"impact assessment should establish the largest noise ex-
cess produced by the source over the applicable limit. The as-
sessment should reflect a planned and predictable mode of
operation of the stationary source.
It important to emphasize that the"predictable worst case"impact does
not necessarily mean that the sound level of the source is highest;it
means that the excess over the limit is largest.For example,the ex-
cess over the applicable limit at night may be larger even if the
day-time sound level produced by the source is higher.
A.5 Definitions
In the interpretation of Publication NPC-205,the following
definitions are of particular relevance:
Ancillary Transportation Facilities
"Ancillary transportation facilities" mean subsid-
iary locations where operations and activities asso-
ciated with the housing of transportation
equipment(or personnel)take place. Examples of
ancillary transportation facilities include, but are
not limited to, substations, vehicle storage and
maintenance facilities, fans, fan and vent shafts,
mechanical equipment plants, emergency services
buildings,etc.
KITCHENER 451.55 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
Construction
"Construction" includes erection, alteration, re-
pair, dismantling, demolition, structural mainte-
nance, painting, moving, land clearing, earth
moving, grading, excavating, the laying of pipe
and conduit whether above or below ground level,
street and highway building, concreting, equip-
ment installation and alteration and the structural
installation of construction components and mate-
rials in any form or for any purpose, and includes
any work in connection therewith; "construction"
excludes activities associated with the operation at
waste and snow disposal sites;
Construction Equipment
"Construction equipment" means any equipment
or device designed and intended for use in con-
struction, or material handling including but not
limited to,air compressors,pile drivers,pneumatic
or hydraulic tools,bulldozers,tractors,excavators,
trenchers, cranes, derricks, loaders, scrapers,pav-
ers, generators, off-highway haulers or trucks,
ditchers, compactors and rollers, pumps, concrete
mixers, graders, or other material handling
equipment;
Conveyance
"Conveyance"includes a vehicle and any other de-
vice employed to transport a person or persons or
goods from place to place but does not include any
such device or vehicle if operated only within the
premises of a person;
Highway
"Highway" includes a common and public high-
way, street, avenue, parkway, driveway, square,
place, bridge, viaduct or trestle designed and in-
tended for, or used by, the general public for the
passage of vehicles;
Motor Vehicle
"Motor vehicle"includes an automobile,motorcy-
cle,and any other vehicle propelled or driven oth-
erwise than by muscular power, but does not
include the cars of diesel, electric or steam rail-
DECEMBER 1996 451.56 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
ways, or other motor vehicles running only upon
rails,or a motorized snow vehicle,traction engine,
farm tractor, self-propelled implement of hus-
bandry or road-building machine within the
meaning of the Highway Traffic Act;
Motorized Conveyance
"Motorized conveyance"means a conveyance pro-
pelled or driven otherwise than by muscular,gravi-
tational or wind power;
Noise
"Noise"means unwanted sound;
Point of Reception
"Point of reception" means any point on the pre-
mises of a person where sound or vibration origi-
nating from other than those premises is received.
For the purpose of approval of new sources,including ver-
ifying compliance with section 9 of the Environ-
mental Protection Pict, the point of reception may
be located on any of the following existing or
zoned for future use premises: permanent or sea-
sonal residences,hotels/motels,nursing/retirement
homes,rental residences,hospitals,camp grounds,
and noise sensitive buildings such as schools and
places of worship.
For equipment/facilities proposed on premises such as
nursing/retirement homes, rental residences, hos-
pitals, and schools, the point of reception may be
located on the same premises.
Stationary Source
"Stationary source"means a source of sound which
does not normally move from place to place and in-
cludes the premises of a person as one stationary
source, unless the dominant source of sound on
those premises is construction or a conveyance.
Urban Hum
"Urban Hum"means aggregate sound of many un-
identifiable, mostly road traffic related noise
sources.
KITCHENER 451.57 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
SOUND LEVELS DUE
TO ROAD TRAFFIC
PUBLICATION NPC-206
OCTOBER 1995
Ministry of Environment and Energy
DECEMBER 1996 451.58 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
1. Scope
This Publication describes the methods to determine the One
Hour Equivalent Sound Level (Leq) of sound caused by road
traffic.The road traffic sound level is used to define sound level
limits for the purposes of complaint investigation or approval of
stationary sources of sound.
The methods apply at a point of reception in any community
where the background sound level is dominated by the sound of
road traffic,referred to as"urban hum".Highly intrusive short
duration noise caused by a source such as an aircraft fly-over or
a train pass-by is excluded from the determination of this
background sound level.
2. References
Reference is made to the following publications:
[1]NPC-101 -Technical Definitions
[2]NPC-102-Instrumentation
[3]NPC-103 -Procedures
[5]NPC-205-Sound Level Limits for Stationary Sources in Class 1&
2 Areas(Urban)
[I I] ORNAMENT, Ontario Road Noise Analysis Method for Envi-
ronment and Transportation Technical Document, Ontario
Ministry of the Environment,ISBN 0-7729-6376, 1989
References[1]to[3]can be found in the Model Municipal Noise Con-
trol By-Law, Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Final Re-
port,August 1978.
3. Technical Definitions
"Ambient sound level"means Background sound level;
`Background sound level"is the sound level that is present in the envi-
ronment,produced by noise sources other than the source under
impact assessment. Highly intrusive short duration noise
caused by a source such as an aircraft fly-over or a train pass-by
is excluded from the determination of the background sound
level;
Other technical terms are defined in Reference[1].
KITCHENER 451.59 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
4. Sound Levels due to Road Traffic
Depending on the application,the One Hour Equivalent Sound
Level(Leq)of road traffic shall be obtained either by measure-
ment or by calculation.The following procedures shall be used
for complaint investigation and for the approval of stationary
sources:
(1) Complaint Investigation of Stationary Sources
The One Hour Equivalent Sound Level (Leq) of road traffic
may be measured or calculated.Measurements of the One Hour
Equivalent Sound Level(L,q)of road traffic shall be carried out
using instrumentation described in Reference [2], following
procedures for the measurement of varying sound described in
Reference[3].
The results of the road traffic Leq measurements must not be af-
fected by the sound due to other noise sources: the measure-
ments should be performed when the stationary source under
impact assessment is not operating.The time interval between
the road traffic(Leq)measurements and the measurement of the
sound level produced by the stationary source under impact as-
sessment should be minimized as much as possible.Preferably,
the two measurements should be carried out within one hour of
each other.
The calculation of the One Hour Equivalent Sound Level(Leq)
of road traffic shall be based on the traffic flows observed on the
contributing road(s),from which traffic noise is audible at the
point of reception, within one hour of the period when the
sound from the stationary source is measured. The calculation
procedure is described in Reference[11].
(2) Approval of Stationary Sources
Measurements of the One Hour Equivalent Sound Level(Leq)
of road traffic shall be carried out following procedures for the
measurement of varying sound described in Reference[3].
Results of the measurement of the One Hour Equivalent Sound
Level(L,q)of road traffic shall reflect the principle of"predict-
able worst case" noise impact. The "predictable worst case"
noise impact occurs during the hour when the difference be-
tween the sound level produced by the stationary source under
impact assessment and the sound level due to road traffic is larg-
est.
DECEMBER 1996 451.60 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
The One Hour Equivalent Sound Level (L,q) of road traffic
may be calculated on the basis of traffic flows observed on the
contributing road(s),from which traffic noise is audible at the
point of reception. The results of calculation of the One Hour
Equivalent Sound Level (L,q) of road traffic shall reflect the
principle of "predictable worst case" noise impact. The
calculation procedure is described in Reference[11]
KITCHENER 451.61 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
RESIDENTIAL
AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
PUBLICATION NPC-216
1993
Ministry of Environment and Energy
DECEMBER 1996 451.62 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
1 Scope
This publication sets out sound level imits and sound emission
standards for resident air conditioning devices including heat
pumps installed in urban areas of Ontario.
2. References
Reference is made to the following Publications or revisions
thereof:
[1]NPC-101 -Technical Definitions
[2]NPC-102-Instrumentation
[3]NPC-103 -Procedures
[4]NPC-104- Sound level Adjustments
[6]NPC-206-Sound levels due to Road Traffic
[10] ORNAMENT, Ontario Road Noise Analysis Method for Envi-
ronment and Transportation, Technical Document, Ontario
Ministry of the Environment,ISBN 0-7729-6376(1989).
[12]Survey of Outdoor Air Conditioner Noise,Final Report.RAC Re-
port #458G, Ontario Ministry of the Environment, ISBN
0-7729-9094-8 (1991).
[13]Environmental Noise Guidelines for the Installation of Residen-
tial Air Conditioning Devices, Ontario Ministry of Environ-
ment and Energy,ISBN 0-7778-1616-4(1994).
[14]ARI*Standard 270-84.Sound Rating of Outdoor Unitary Equip-
ment.
[15] ARI* Standard 275-84. Application of Sound Rated Outdoor
Unitary Equipment.
[16] ANSI Standard S12.32 -1990. Discrete-Frequency and Nar-
row-Band Noise Sources in Reverberation Rooms, Precision
Methods for the Determination of Sound Power Levels.
References[1]to[6]are also part of the Model Municipal Noise
Control By-law,of the Ontario Ministry of the Environment.
*Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute,4301 North Fairfax Drive,Suite 425,
Arlington,VA 22203
KITCHENER 451.63 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
3. Technical Definitions
"Ambient sound level"is the sound level that is present in the
environment,produced by noise sources other than the source
under impact assessment. See Background sound level;
"Background sound level"means Ambient sound level;
"Class 1 Area"means an area with an acoustical environment typical
of a major population centre, where the background noise is
dominated by the urban hum.
"Class 2 Area"means a area with an acoustical environment that has
qualities representative of both Class 1 and Class 3 Areas,and
in which a low ambient sound level,normally occurring only
between 23:00 and 07:00 hours in Class 1 Areas,will typically
be realized as early as 19:00 hours.
Other characteristics which may indicate the presence of Class 2 Area
include:
• absence of urban hum between 19:00 and 23:00
hours;
• ambient sound level is defined by natural environ-
ment and infrequent human activity; and
• no clearly audible sound from stationary sources
other than those under consideration.
"Class 3 Area"means an area with an acoustical environment that is
dominated by natural sounds typical of agricultural or wilder-
ness areas and having little or no road traffic, such as the
following:
* a small community with less than 1000 population;
* farm land or land zoned rural or agricultural;
* a rural recreational area such as a cottage or a resort
area; or
* a wilderness area.
*In the context of this publication,the stationary sources under consideration are residen-
tial air conditioning devices.
DECEMBER 1996 451.64 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
4. Sound Level Limits for Air Conditioning Devices.
Either the general sound level limit in Section 4.(1)or the spe-
cific sound level limit in Section 4.(3)shall apply to an air con-
ditioning device. The less restrictive of these two limits shall
prevail.
(1) General Sound Level Limit
The general sound level limit (shown in Table
216-1 and determined in accordance with Section
4.(2))is 5 dBA greater than a one hour equivalent
sound level(Leq)caused by road traffic at the point
of reception during the period of 07:00 to 21:00
hours.The specific hour is to be determined by the
noise control officer based on the assessment ofan-
noyance by the complainant.
TABLE 216-1
GENERAL SOUND LEVEL LIMIT
All Air Conditioning Devices
Area Type Leq(dBA)
Class I One Hour Equivalent Sound Level(Leq)of
and road traffic 5 dBA measured during the
Class 2 period of 07:00 to 21:00 hours
(2) Establishment of the General Sound Level Limit
The general sound level limit shall be established
through measurements or calculation of the One
Hour Equivalent Sound Level(Leq)caused by road
traffic as obtained pursuant to Reference[6]at the
point of reception.
(3) Specific Sound Level Limits
Specific sound level limits are identified in Table
216-2 for two types of residential air conditioning
devices as minimum limits of compliance.
KITCHENER 451.65 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
TABLE 216-2
SPECIFIC SOUND LEVEL LIMITS
Central Air Conditioning Devices
Area Type One Hour Leq(dBA)
Class 2 45
Class 1 50*
Window or Through-the-Wall Air Conditioning Devices
Area Type One Hour Leq(dBA)
Class 2 45
Class 1 50
* When the devices are mandatory requirements for noise
control in the interior living spaces of new land use de-
velopments,the specific sound level limit is one hour Leq
=55 dBA.
5. Sound Levels from Installed Air Conditioning Devices
To determine if an installed air conditioning device complies
with the sound level limits, the sound level due to the device
must be measured following the procedure described in Refer-
ence[3].
The Procedure assumes that the measured sound is dominated
by the source under investigation(air conditioning device).To
ensure that the measured sound is dominated by the air condi-
tioning device, sound level measurements must be carried out
separately with,and without the device in operation.
The measurement of the background sound level,i.e. without
the air conditioning device operating, is carried out in accor-
dance with the procedure described in Reference[3].
If the change in sound level measured separately with, and
without the air conditioning device is less than 10 dBA,a cor-
rection shall be made to determine the contribution ofthe exist-
ing background sound levels to the overall measured sound
level.Table 216-3 provides correction values and a example of
the calculation.
DECEMBER 1996 451.66 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
TABLE 216-3
PROCEDURE RECOMMENDED TO SEPARATE THE SOUND
LEVEL OF AN AIR CONDITIONING DEVICE FROM THE
BACKGROUND SOUND LEVEL
Change in dBA of Sound Level Correction dBA to be
with and without Unit in Operation Subtracted from Higher
Sound Level to Obtain
Sound Level from Device
10 or more 0
7 to 9 1
4 to 6 2
3 3
2 4
1 6
0 10
Example: Sound level without
unit in operation =45 dBA
Sound level with unit in operation =50 dBA
Change =5dBA
Correction from Table =2 dBA
Unit sound level =50-2 =48dBA
6. Sound Emission Standards
Table 216-4 gives the sound emission standards for new resi-
dential central air conditioning devices.
KITCHENER 451.67 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
TABLE 216-4
SOUND EMISSION STANDARDS FOR RESIDENTIAL
CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
Date of Size(BTUH) Maximum ARlStandard*
Manufacture Sound Rating(bells)
After 1990-12-31 38,900 or less 8.0
and
before 1992-01-01
After 1991-12-31 38,900 or less 7.6
and
1995-01-01
After 1994-12-31 38,900 or less (Under discussion
with the industry to
assess feasibility
of reduction)
BTUH=British Thermal Unit for an Hour
*Measurement procedure as per Reference[14].
ANNEX
EXPLANATORY NOTES TO PUBLICATION NPC-216
RESIDENTIAL AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
A.1. Sound Level Measurements- Summary
Verification ofcompliance ofthe air conditioner and heat pump
units with the sound level limits can be accomplished through
measurements using a properly calibrated sound level meter
which meets the required standard specifications.
Details of the instrument specifications are included in Refer-
ence[2].
The measurements shall be performed outdoors at a sensitive
location on neighbouring residential property in the vicinity of
the air conditioning device,where the sound ofthe device may
cause annoyance.Typically this wouldbe a patio or a window.
The measurements may also be required at a point ofreception
in the plane of an open window facing the unit to ensure that the
JANUARY 2005 451.68 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
sound level at noise sensitive indoor spaces in a neighbouring
residence is not in excess of the guideline limits. Details the
measurement procedure are included in Reference[3].
A.2. Sound Level Limits
People's response to noise varies depending upon the commu-
nity's as well as the individual's economic and social relation-
ship to the source.The sound level limits for air conditioner and
heat pump noise were established based on the results of socio-
logical surveys of large numbers of people and represent what is
considered to be the onset of significant degradation of the
noise environment relative to the expectations of the general
population.
The sound level limits are receptor oriented,i.e. they apply at
any noise sensitive location within a Class 2 or Class 1 Area(as
defined in NPC-216)at which sound from the air conditioning
device may cause annoyance.
The specific limits shown in Table 216-2 are expressed in terms
of the one hour equivalent sound level L,q,and apply to recep-
tor locations in Class 1 and Class 2 Areas.
A separate limit applies to those receptor locations in Class 1
Areas where the unit was a mandatory requirement for noise
control of the interior living space in new land use develop-
ments.
Apreemption in the form of general imit applies in an area of
a relatively high background noise caused by road traffic as
shown in Table 216-1.In accordance with this pre-emption,the
existing background sound level,if higher than the limits in Ta-
ble 216-2, represents the criterion of acceptability for the air
conditioning device operation. In addition, the general limits
are increased by 5 dBA for any hour from 07:00 to 21:00 hours.
The period of assessment was chosen in accordance with the
findings of a sociological survey conducted in 1990,Reference
[12].
A.3. Complaint Investigation
Investigators of a complaint against installed air conditioning
devices must carry out sound level measurements at the recep-
tor location(s).The measurements are to be made in accordance
with methods identified in Section A.1.The operating sound of
the air conditioning device and the background sound consist-
KITCHENER 451.69 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
ing of the road traffic noise must be measured at the same loca-
tion,separately.While the background sound level is measured
the air conditioning device must be turned off. Contributions
from aircraft and rail noise sources must be inhibited at all
times.Unattended measurements are not recommended.Atmo-
spheric conditions may have significant influence on the ambi-
ent sound levels,for details see Reference[3].
The sound level of an installed air conditioning device may be
calculated from the sound levels measured with the device op-
erating(device plus background noise)and without it operating
(background only).The procedure is described in Section 5.A
correction value is determined between these two sound levels.
Subtracting this correction from the higher sound level (mea-
sured with the device in operation)gives the sound level due to
the air conditioning device itself. See Table 216-3.
Determination of the road traffic sound level is to be made by
the noise control officer based on the assessment of the annoy-
ance by the complainant(s). The time of highest annoyance
within the time period of 07:00 to 21:00 is to fall in the selected
one hour of the road traffic noise.
A.4. Installation of Air Conditioning Devices
Purchasers and installers of air conditioning devices have to be
cognizant of the MOEE guideline on the Sound Emission Stan-
dards listed in Table 216-4.Further explanation of the standards
is provided in Section A.5.Only units meeting the requirements
of Table 216-4 may be installed in Ontario.
For guidance on the selection,location or sound rating of the air
conditioning devices or for the method to estimate the sound
levels,installers should refer to Reference[13].
Installation of units that are in compliance with the sound emis-
sion standard must also be in compliance with the point of re-
ception sound level limits, i.e. complying with the least
restrictive sound level imit of Tables 216-1 and 216-2.
If the calculated sound level of the unit is in excess of the spe-
cific sound level limit(Table 216-2), the general sound level
limit is to be determined.If both limits are exceeded by the cal-
culated levels then alteration is needed in one or more of the fol-
lowing:the size or make of unit,its location or the type of noise
DECEMBER 1996 451.70 KITCHENER
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
reducing installation treatment(use of barrier or enclosure).
Owners of installed units producing a sound level in excess of
the sound level imits will be required to reduce the noise of the
unit,when faced with complaints.
Noise abatement is more expensive and less cost effective than
a proper installation.
A.5. Sound Emission Standards
In contrast to the sound level imits which apply at the point of
reception, sound emission standards are source oriented, and
are based on the concept of sound power level which is a basic
measure of the acoustic output of a noise source.
The sound level of the air conditioner or heat pump at a receptor
location depends on many factors such as distance separation,
unit's orientation with respect to the receptor, presence of
shielding objects or structures,intervening terrain,topography
and ground cover between the unit and receptor, as well as on
atmospheric conditions,all of which are independent of the ac-
tual sound emission of the unit.
Sound power on the other hand is a fundamental property of the
acoustic source alone and is, therefore, an important absolute
parameter which is widely used for rating and comparing sound
sources.
The rating of air conditioner and heat pump equipment is desig-
nated as the ARI Sound Rating(SR*) and is provided by the
manufacturer of the device.
The Sound Rating is based on laboratory tests performed at
Standard Rating Conditions in accordance with References
[14]and[16].The SR is an indicator of the sound power level of
the equipment,the lower the SR,the lower the sound power of
the air conditioner or heat pump.
Sound Emission Standards in Table 216-4 apply to central air
conditioning devices only and not for window or
through-the-wall units.
The maximum acceptable ARI Standard Sound Ratings shown
in Table 216-4 are set in accordance with the date of manufac-
KITCHENER 451.71 DECEMBER 1996
NOISE-AIR CONDITIONING DEVICES
ture.Two Sound Emission Standards,8.0 and 7.6 bets are speci-
fied for air conditioner and heat pump units manufactured
during 1991, and during 1992 through 1994 respectively. The
Sound Emission Standard applies to unit that are sized at 3 8,900
BtuH capacity or less.The emission limits projected after 1994
are under discussion with the industry to access the feasibility of
reduction.
*SR is a tone corrected A-weighted sound power level,expressed in bels.
DECEMBER 1996 451.72 KITCHENER