Sound Level Meters
A sound level meter is a measuring instrument used to assess noise or sound levels by measuring sound pressure. Often referred to as a sound pressure level (SPL) meter, decibel (dB) meter, noise meter or noise dosimeter, a sound level meter uses a microphone to capture sound. The sound is then evaluated within the sound level meter and acoustic measurement values are shown on the display of the sound level meter. The most common unit of acoustic measurement for sound is the decibel (dB); however, some sound level meter devices also determine the equivalent continuous sound level (Leq) and other acoustic parameters. With a portable sound level meter, industrial hygiene and workplace safety professionals can measure sound levels in multiple locations to ensure environmental conditions fall within recommended exposure limits (RELs). Some sound level meter devices can be permanently installed for continuous monitoring of sound levels at a work or job site.
