Noise codes and acoustical design criteria for distribution facilities

Abstract

Distribution and warehouse-type facilities are routinely constructed all over the country and the world. On-site noise sources for this type of facility include heavy trucks, delivery vehicles, and rooftop HVAC equipment. Stationary noise is often more clearly regulated than mobile noise sources. To protect the public, appropriate criteria need to be established for all sources. Some jurisdictions have quantitative regulatory limits in place that may be used as design criteria while others may have less helpful qualitative code language or no noise code at all. A review of common metrics found throughout the U.S. is presented to understand code language that appropriately protects the public for specific sources. In addition, it is useful to analyze and discuss common criteria applied in the absence of quantitative code limits.