Sound masking is a powerful yet often overlooked tool in the acoustic performance of modern buildings. This educational session is designed for consulting and specifying engineers who are responsible for designing environments that support speech privacy, occupant comfort, and acoustic compliance.
Engineers should understand the underlying science of sound masking — including spectral design, emitter placement, and system zoning — along with how it integrates into engineering specifications and architectural plans.
Attendees will gain insight into best practices for system specification, performance criteria, and alignment with certifications such as International Well Building Institute’s WELL and U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED. Real-world applications and case studies will highlight how properly engineered sound masking contributes to effective building design and client satisfaction.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the acoustic principles of sound masking, including masking spectrum and spatial uniformity.
- Evaluate the impact of sound masking on speech privacy, distraction reduction, and ANSI acoustic criteria.
- Identify key considerations for specifying and integrating sound masking systems in construction documents.
- Understand how sound masking contributes to performance requirements for certifications such as WELL and LEED.
