Because environmental acoustics has a complex mathematical basis,it is often difficult to determine whether acousticalrecommendations are valid. Handbook of Environmental Acousticssimplifies this decision-making process and provides easy-to-followexplanations of acoustic terminology, noise control design, andregulatory noise issues. The book clarifies key aspects ofenvironmental noise in basic language, covering: * Common noise sources--including the risk of exposure to commondaily environmental noise sources * Current noise regulations, guidelines, andstandards--illustrating all key points * Acoustic terminology and environmental noisedescriptors--providing a foundation for understanding noiseissues * Effects of noise on people and animals--emphasizing theimportance of restricting noise exposure * Relevant noise rating methods--clarifiying the use of noisemetrics * Construction and building code requirements--explaining currentrequirements and featuring tips on how to avoid privacyproblems * Measurement considerations--demonstrating standard methods andoffering practical advice on how to ensure proper measurementprocedures * Noise control designs--detailing source-path-receiver systems andnoise control fundamentals In addition to traditional noise control methods, new areas, suchas active noise control, sound intensity measurement, and diffusivedesigns, are explained. A sample municipal noise ordinance helpsthe user to draft an ordinance tailored to the needs of aparticular community. Avoiding complex mathematics and analyses,Handbook of Environmental Acoustics is a user-friendly manual forurban planners, municipal officials, engineers, attorneys,industrial hygienists, architects, environmental professionals, andstudents in these fields.

Topics covered include fundamentals of sound, vibration and hearing, elements of a hearing conservation program, noise interference and annoyance, regulations, standards and laws.

Two of the most acclaimed reference works in the area of acoustics in recent years have been our Encyclopedia of Acoustics, 4 Volume set and the Handbook of Acoustics spin-off. These works, edited by Malcolm Crocker, positioned Wiley as a major player in the acoustics reference market. With our recently published revision of Beranek & Ver's Noise and Vibration Control Engineering, Wiley is a highly respected name in the acoustics business. Crocker's new handbook covers an area of great importance to engineers and designers. Noise and vibration control is one largest areas of application of the acoustics topics covered in the successful encyclopedia and handbook. It is also an area that has been under-published in recent years. Crocker has positioned this reference to cover the gamut of topics while focusing more on the applications to industrial needs. In this way the book will become the best single source of need-to-know information for the professional markets.