Validating construction noise models for utility discovery operations

Public utility systems often run underground. Before constructing a new light rail system, it is necessary to positively locate, and potentially move, utility lines. This requires the use of various types of construction equipment, including a vacuum truck/excavator, jack hammer, pavement saw, air hose, and equipment for tamping and installing steel plates. Sound levels were measured at multiple sites for these utility discovery operations, and results will be presented in terms of both broadband and 1/3-octave band levels. The broadband sound levels were also compared to those predicted using two construction noise models: the Federal Highway Administration Roadway Construction Noise Model (RCNM) and CadnaA. These comparisons will be presented, showing the validity of each model for predicting utility discovery operations.