There are approximately 200 sound measurement mobile applications, but few that meet standards for accuracy. In 2014, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) began a comprehensive evaluation of these apps to “examine their suitability and accuracy in relation to professional sound measurement instruments.” As a result of the study, the organization now offers safety professionals the NIOSH Sound Level Meter.
The app is not meant to replace a professional sound level meter or a noise dosimeter, yet initial readings can be taken and confirmed with a professional meter where identified. The necessity of the equipments’ recording instruments to be similar, ensuring accuracy across devices, limits the app to the more standardized iPhone series. It can prove quite useful when quick readings are desired.
Consider how such an app could be used by frontline workers, and the participation it could encourage in a company. Many organizations do not have access to professional noise measurement devices at hand as well, in which case the app can provide important indication of potential noise issues.
View more information and get the download link from NIOSH’s Noise and Hearing Loss Prevention webpage.