Sound control and room acoustics are increasingly important considerations in modern building design. From speech privacy in offices to occupant comfort in schools, healthcare facilities, and residential buildings, effective acoustic design contributes directly to building performance and user satisfaction.
This presentation will provide attendees with a practical understanding of the key acoustic concepts used in construction and design, including sound transmission ratings, room acoustics, reverberation control, and acoustic performance requirements found in leading building standards.
Andrew Schmidt will explain how acoustic systems are tested, what the various performance ratings mean, and how acoustic design decisions can influence occupant experience. The session will also review acoustic requirements within the WELL Building Standard Version 2 and discuss best practices for achieving desired acoustic outcomes.
Whether you are involved in design, specification writing, construction, commissioning, or facility operations, this presentation will provide valuable insight into the science behind acoustics and the practical application of acoustic performance requirements.
Learning Objectives
By attending this seminar, participants will:
- Understand the fundamentals of sound transmission and room acoustics.
- Learn the significance of STC, IIC, and CAC ratings and how they are related.
- Understand how acoustic products and assemblies are tested in laboratory environments.
- Become familiar with field performance measures such as NIC, NNIC, and NISR.
- Learn how sound-absorbing materials influence reverberation time and overall room performance.
- Understand NRC, Sabins, and Array-NRC ratings and their applications.
- Review acoustic requirements within the WELL Building Standard v2.
- Explore practical design considerations and common misconceptions related to sound-rated construction.