Environmental acoustics: Comparison of noise exposure measurements recorded in dosimeters and sound level meters

A methodological development is proposed to compare the results of measurements of the equivalent level of noise exposure (ambient sound) and SEL in urban areas near traffic routes obtained in the conventional way by using a fixed-point sound level meter and noise dosimeters. Class I calibrated equipment is used for the sound level meter and Class II for the dosimeter. Comparisons are made by maintaining a fixed point location for the sound level meter and using dosimeters for measurements in different media moving with reference to the fixed point. The research is ongoing. To simulate the measured scenarios a mathematical model, from the Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering of the Miguel Hernandez University of Elche (Spain), is used to compare measured results against model results. The field values are used to calibrate the model, validating it for use when it is necessary to have exposure values at different points and at different heights. The first results show an appreciable difference between noise exposure measured in the conventional way and that inferred from ambient sound pressure levels measured with a sound level meter, for different environments in urban areas close to traffic routes, with the highest incidence on pedestrians.