Measuring noise exposure over time requires Leq, not standard meter settings

Evidence

Sometimes it is important to be able to calculate an estimate of the equivalent sound level experienced over a period of time. This is especially important when measuring people’s noise exposure in order to see if they might suffer noise-induced hearing loss. This cannot be done using the standard fast or slow time responses on a sound level meter; instead a spe­ cial form of measurement known as the “Leq” (pronounced L E Q) measure­ ment is used. — David Howard, Jamie Angus, coustics and Psychoacoustics, 628

Categorization

• DEFINE: Establishes why the Leq concept exists — assessing long-term hearing-damage risk.