Acoustic Engineering Glossary
A
- A-weighting (dBA)
- A measurement scale that reflects how humans perceive sound at different frequencies.
- Acoustic Design
- The integration of sound control measures into building design to achieve performance and compliance outcomes.
- Acoustics
- The science of sound - how it is produced, transmitted and controlled in different environments.
- Ambient Noise
- The background sound present in an environment, such as traffic, air conditioning or general activity.
- Attenuation
- The reduction of sound energy as it travels through air, materials or barriers.
C
- Construction Certificate (CC)
- A stage of approval confirming that detailed building plans comply with regulations before construction begins.
D
- dB (Decibel)
- A unit used to measure sound levels.
- Development Application (DA)
- A planning approval process where proposed developments are assessed, often requiring acoustic reporting.
E
- Environmental Noise
- Noise from external sources such as roads, rail, industry or entertainment venues that may affect nearby receivers.
F
- Frequency
- The pitch of a sound, measured in Hertz (Hz). Low frequency = bass; high frequency = treble.
N
- Noise Criteria
- The target or allowable noise levels set by regulations, guidelines or project requirements.
R
- Reverberation
- The persistence of sound in a space after the original sound source has stopped, caused by reflections off surfaces.
- RT60 (Reverberation Time)
- The time it takes for sound to decay by 60 decibels in a room.
S
- Sound Insulation
- The ability of building elements (walls, floors, ceilings) to reduce sound transmission between spaces.
V
- Vibration
- Mechanical movement transmitted through structures or ground, often caused by machinery, transport or construction activity.