Low Frequency Noise and Annoyance in Classroom

The most common method for noise assessment is the A-weighted sound pressure level. The question has been raised as to whether the frequency weighting with an A-filter gives a correct result when assessing the annoyance response to noise containing strong low frequency noise (LFN) components. One method suggested to identify LFN is the dB(C) – dB(A) difference. The aims of this study are to investigate if background noise in Swedish elementary schools is to be considered as LFN, further to test the hypothesis that students exposed to audible LFN at high levels are more annoyed than students exposed to LFN at lower levels. The results indicate that the noise in 16 out of 22 classrooms should be considered as LFN. The analysis did not show any difference in rated annoyance between students exposed to high LFN levels and students exposed to low LFN levels.