The do’s and don’ts of electronic sound masking

Abstract

Electronic sound masking, when properly implemented, can be an effective tool for introducing background noise in occupied spaces, which is a key factor of speech privacy. Mechanical ventilation systems generally cannot be relied upon to provide the consistent and appropriate levels of background noise that sound masking systems are capable of, and this is even more the case with variable-air-volume systems and several emerging (or re-emerging) technologies such as natural ventilation, underfloor air distribution, and chilled beams. However, despite general industry consensus of what constitutes appropriate levels of background noise, striking discrepancies in acoustic performance have been observed for several recent sound masking installations, thus defeating the original objectives for such a system. Fortunately, such issues can be avoided if design efforts account for limitations of both the sound masking system and acoustics of the space, clear performance requirements are established, and the system is properly adjusted and balanced prior to occupancy. Through case studies, this paper seeks through to illustrate the need for a guided approach toward achieving successful outcomes while also highlighting the broader range of issues involved with speech privacy.