Noise limits and indicators for intermittent indoor low frequency noise

In Denmark indoor low frequency (LF) noise is measured with the indicator LAeq, 10 min in the frequency range 10-160 Hz. Recent complaints related to short intermittent low frequency noise events (sounds from underground metro, light rail, neighbouring fitness centre...) could indicate that the correlation between measurements of LAeq and the experienced annoyance is poor. A literature study for LF descriptors and noise limits in other countries has been made. Listening tests on annoyance of various types of intermittent indoor LF noise types is ongoing and the results will be correlated with alternative relevant noise indicators. The results of the literature study and the listening tests are presented in this paper.