In parallel with the methods and procedures defined in the General Noise Regulation (RGR), the performance of acoustic tests for the assessment of exposure to outdoor ambient noise levels and for the evaluation of discomfort must be carried out in accordance with the procedures established in the Portuguese standardization for noise.
The Portuguese Standard NP ISO 1996:2019, Parts 1 and 2, entitled “Acoustics. Description, Measurement, and Assessment of Environmental Noise,” harmonized with the International Standard ISO 1996 “Acoustics. Description, measurement and assessment of environmental noise,” aims to contribute to the international harmonization of methods for describing, measuring, and assessing environmental noise from all sources. This standard is composed of two parts:
- NP ISO 1996-1 (2019) entitled “Acoustics. Description, measurement, and assessment of environmental noise. Part 1: Fundamental quantities and assessment methods.”
- NP ISO 1996-2 (2019) entitled “Acoustics. Description, measurement, and assessment of environmental noise. Part 2: Determination of sound pressure levels.”
According to the RGR, the acoustic tests required for the verification of the legislation must be conducted by entities accredited within the scope of the National Quality System. For a list of accredited companies for conducting acoustic tests, please refer to the Portuguese Accreditation Institute’s directory of Accredited Entities (cf. L – Laboratories and Testing – Acoustics and Vibrations).
National guidelines related to acoustic testing are provided in the “Practical Guide for Environmental Noise Measurements in the Context of the General Noise Regulation, considering NP ISO 1996” (Portuguese Environment Agency, July 2020), available on the Portuguese Environment Agency website.
