Overview
EN ISO 11690-3:1998 (ISO/TR 11690-3:1997) is a CEN-referenced technical report on acoustics that gives recommended practices for the design of low-noise workplaces containing machinery. Part 3 focuses on sound propagation and noise prediction in workrooms, and provides guidance on predicting sound pressure levels at workplaces and using those predictions to support practical noise-control decisions during design and layout.
Key topics
- Sound propagation in workrooms - principles describing how sound radiates from machines and interacts with room surfaces (reflections, absorption and scattering).
- Noise prediction methods - recommended approaches to estimate sound pressure levels at workplace positions using machine sound power data and room acoustic characteristics.
- Acoustic input data - guidance on the types of source and room data needed for prediction (e.g., sound power, placement, surface absorption characteristics).
- Use of prediction for noise control - how predicted levels inform selection and placement of controls: enclosures, barriers, absorbers, layout changes and machine selection.
- Uncertainty and practical limitations - discussion of the reliability of prediction results and how to interpret outcomes for design decisions.
- Reporting and documentation - advice on presenting prediction results to stakeholders for design review and compliance planning.
Applications
EN ISO 11690-3 is intended to support practical noise control and acoustical planning in industrial and workshop environments. Typical uses include:
- Early-stage layout and acoustic design of production areas to achieve low-noise workplaces
- Selection and placement of machinery to minimize worker exposure to noise
- Evaluating the effect of room finishes, enclosures and barriers on sound pressure levels
- Input for occupational health risk assessments and noise-reduction investment decisions
- Guiding acoustic consultants, plant designers and facility managers in predictive modelling prior to measurement
Who should use it
- Acoustic consultants and engineers
- Occupational health and safety professionals
- Plant and facility designers, architects and layout planners
- Machine manufacturers and purchasers assessing in-situ noise impact
- Project managers implementing noise-control measures
Related standards
- ISO 11690 series (other parts covering design principles and measurements)
- National or regional occupational noise-exposure standards and measurement protocols
- Standards on acoustic terminology, sound power level determination and room acoustics
EN ISO 11690-3:1998 is a practical resource for integrating noise prediction, sound propagation understanding and workroom acoustic design to create safer, lower-noise industrial workplaces.
