You may find based on your research that neither of these criteria is appropriate to the case at hand. For instance:
- The equipment is not covered by the EU Machinery Directive but is typically specified in sound power level.
- The equipment is covered by the EU Directive but, because of circumstances, the noise emission is expected to be greater than the Directive allows.
- The equipment is typically specified in sound pressure level but noise emission is expected to be greater than 80 dBA.
In all of these cases, remember that the goal is to fit the criterion to the state of the art. You can adapt the criterion as necessary with the assistance and authorization of the Buy Quiet Program Manager.
Use the following resources to help assess state-of-the-art:
- Review noise emission data provided by suppliers to determine the state-of-the-art. Suppliers should submit data to you using the Sound Data Form
(74 KB). - Check online databases for noise emission of the equipment you are purchasing.
- Review other specifications that pertain to your equipment.