Topics

The abbreviation 4G refers to the fourth generation of mobile communications.

The fifth generation of mobile communications technology, which enables higher data transfer rates and lower latency.

Frequency weighting appropriate for hearing at low levels.

Installations which are situated above ground level and, in accordance with Section 2(15) of the AwSV, have no underground components.

Attenuation of airborne or waterborne sound through friction losses.

Sensors for measuring acceleration.

A sensor used to measure the vibration acceleration of a structure. Depending on the respective measurement task, accelerometers with different sensitivities, as well as single-axis or triaxial variants, are used.  …

An acoustic test to determine whether the requirements of the acoustic specification are being met.

An acceptance test in the context of emission measurement refers to the specific testing and measurement of pollutants emitted from a plant or system before the system is put into operation or officially accepted.…

The accreditation according to ISO/IEC 17025 is an international standard that specifies the requirements for testing and calibration laboratories. In Germany, accreditation is provided by DAkkS, the ‘German…

By arranging a large number of individual microphones and processing the resulting signals, the acoustic camera enables the localisation of individual noise sources. Acoustic cameras can be used in industrial plants…

Airborne noise: calculated estimate of the expected sound pressure levels in different areas (rooms, decks) of a ship. Waterborne noise: calculated estimate of the radiated waterborne noise.

Measuring probe consisting of one or more microphones and preamplifiers as well as a specially developed windscreen for performing acoustic measurements in hot and high-flow environments, such as exhaust ducts of…

Acoustic-induced vibrations that occur, for example, in control valve pipes and can potentially cause damage to the pipe system.

Acoustic management involves quality assurance measures designed to systematically monitor and ensure compliance with defined acoustic requirements and target values.

Monitoring of acoustic conditions of machines and systems (ships) using acoustic measurements.

Defined target values for technical noise sources. Requirements may arise, for example, from noise immission control (including noise immission forecasts and planning approval notices), workplace noise protection or…

Maximum emission levels (Le,max and Le,max octave levels) and permissible immission levels are specified in approval notices, which are determined, amongst other things, on the basis of a noise immission forecast…

Temporal and spectral characteristics of the sound emitted by ships and submarines. Used for detection and classification.

Numerical methods for calculating sound radiation, sound propagation etc.

Contractual stipulation of the requirements for the acoustic properties of a ship.

The Act on Protection against Aircraft Noise ensures the protection of the general public and local residents from unacceptably high levels of aircraft noise in the vicinity of airports through building use…

Action management is the systematic process of planning, implementing, monitoring and controlling tasks in order to achieve business objectives, resolve issues (e.g. arising from audits or customer complaints) and…

Proposed action plan based on noise impacts (case-by-case distinctions depending on the impact), assessment of possible noise control measures for construction sites, noise abatement plan, protective brief. …

Elastic mounting of sensitive equipment to reduce the vibration amplitudes introduced (-> vibration foundation). Passive systems are unregulated. Active systems require control electronics. They can also be designed…

The harmful effect of a substance that can occur after a single or repeated short-term exposure (oral, inhalation, dermal) within a short period of time. It is often expressed as the lethal dose (LD50) at which 50…

Measurement of inhalation exposure: dusts, metals, binding agents.

Assessment of existing installations, forecasting as part of the planning process (e.g. petrol station signage).

Aeroacoustic noise is caused by the airflow around the vehicle and its external components. It usually only becomes noticeable at higher speeds (> 200 km/h), significantly exceeding the share of rolling noise.…

Flow-induced vibrations.

Areas of filling or transhipment facilities as defined in Section 2(18) of the AwSV which, in the event of an operational fault during the filling or transhipment of water-polluting substances, may be exposed to…

Air as an object of protection refers to the preservation and protection of air quality in the environment. Air as a resource is vital for the health of humans, animals and plants, as well as for the entire…

Carrying out accredited and notified ambient air quality measurements (outdoor air measurements).

Air pollutants are harmful substances in the air that can affect both human health and the environment.

Air pollutants are particles or gases that can have a negative impact on both human health and the environment. These are mainly released through the operation of industrial, commercial and agricultural facilities,…

Carrying out long-term and short-term measurements.

Air pollution refers to the contamination of the air by various pollutants, which mainly result from human activities.

Air pollution indicators characterise the level of pollution caused by an air pollutant. When considering pollution levels, a distinction must be made between pre-existing pollution, total additional pollution,…

Carrying out immission measurements to determine the air quality.

Monitoring air quality through ambient air quality measurements.

In an air quality assessment the emissions and immissions of air pollutants and odours associated with a project (e.g. the approval of a plant, the adoption of a local development plan, or the planning approval of a…

Air quality measurements to assess air quality.

Carrying out immission measurements to determine the air quality.

Air quality measurements to assess air quality.

Carrying out accredited and notified environmental monitoring (outdoor air quality monitoring).

Monitoring air quality through ambient air quality measurements.

An air quality plan is an instrument for regional air pollution control and is intended, particularly in conurbations, to ensure that the limit values for air pollutants set by the European Union can be met. …

The speed at which air flows.

Noise in the vehicle interior can generally be caused by airborne noise contributions and/or structure-borne noise contributions. Airborne noise contributions are caused by airborne noise sources located either…

Sound that propagates through the air. It is transmitted as a fluctuation in air pressure and perceived by the human ear.

See also “insulation”. Airborne sound insulation refers to the ability to block airborne sound. It is a measure of the airborne sound reduction provided by a building element between two rooms. …

Data from the official real estate cadastre.

At the workplace, a distinction is made between alveolar and inhalable dust fractions.

Carrying out accredited and notified ambient air quality monitoring (outdoor air measurements).

An anechoic chamber is a special acoustic laboratory room in which the walls, floor and ceiling are designed in such a way that virtually no sound reflections occur. It is also known as an echo-free chamber. Due to…

A room in which the walls, ceiling and, where applicable, the floor are designed to minimise sound reflection as much as possible.

The angle-dependent contrast describes how the contrast of a display changes when viewed from different angles.

Subjective perception of the annoyance caused by a sound; an index derived from the interaction of psychoacoustic parameters.

The applicability of the Hazardous Incident Regulation must be assessed on the basis of the quantities of hazardous substances that are or may be present in a facility. The Hazardous Incident Regulation applies if…

The so-called appropriate safety distance is the recommended distance for operating areas, taking into account detailed knowledge, which can be determined on the basis of the substances handled in accordance with…

Software from the company ESRI for importing, processing, preparing, displaying and exporting geodata.

Arsenic is toxic and exhibits metallic or non-metallic properties depending on its form. It rarely occurs in its elemental form but is usually found in combination with other substances.

A replica of the upper half of the human body with specific microphone positions in the ear canal.

Asbestos was used in buildings until around 1995. Asbestos can be detected using scanning electron microscopy (Asbestos analysis).

The ATEX Product Directive (2014/34/EU) is an EU regulation that specifies the requirements for equipment and protective systems used in potentially explosive atmospheres.

The amplitude of a vibration is reduced by converting vibrational energy into thermal energy.

The AUSTAL programme is the reference implementation for applying the revised version of TA Luft (Technical Instructions on Air Quality Control) with regard to propagation calculations and is provided by the Federal…

Software from the Federal Environment Agency for processing and visualising the results of propagation calculations in accordance with TA Luft (AUSTAL).

Software for creating technical drawings.

The spatially and temporally averaged (internal) sound pressure level on all accessible levels of the room or hall, assuming that there is a reverberation field within the room.

Regulation on facilities for handling substances hazardous to water for the protection of waters against adverse changes in their properties due to the release of substances hazardous to water. …

In acoustic measurements, background noise refers to sounds that do not originate from the source being measured. During acoustic measurements in industry, it is often not possible to switch off neighbouring sound…

Also known as a ‘generalised forecast’. In this case, the immissions affecting buildings are calculated as a ‘worst-case’ scenario using a series of empirically determined transfer functions, usually based on…

The basic obligations are set out in the first section of the Major Accidents Ordinance (§§ 3 - 8a) and apply to all operational categories (lower and upper class).

Best Available Techniques. BAT is generally defined in Article 3 of the IPPC Directive as “the most efficient and advanced stage of development of activities and associated operational methods, which makes certain…

Technical background information that, depending on the specific activity, includes a description of the techniques used, current emission and consumption values, and the resulting findings. The key conclusions from…

Determination of the maximum operating time of a battery-powered device.

A battery storage system is a stationary energy storage device based on rechargeable batteries and/or capacitors. Key parameters include power (in watts) and storage capacity (in watt-hours). In commercial…

Building dynamics describes the dynamic behaviour of the ground when subjected to vibration excitation. It provides an essential basis for the prediction and assessment of vibrations. Key parameters include the…

Determination of the dynamic stiffness of bearing components (on a test bench or by using an impulse hammer test).

Targeted design of bearing characteristics for a specific machine configuration. The aim may be to achieve the smoothest possible operation of machines or to minimise the transmission of vibrations to other…

Targeted design of bearing characteristics for a specific machine configuration. The aim may be to achieve the smoothest possible operation of machines or to minimise the transmission of vibrations to other…

Benzene is an organic chemical compound with an aromatic odour. Benzene is carcinogenic. It is found in petrol for motor vehicles. Whenever you fill up your car, you come into contact with this dangerous substance,…

Benzo(a)pyrene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH). When inhaled, it is carcinogenic. In the air, benzo(a)pyrene is detected bound to particulate matter and is considered an indicator substance for other…

The BESTAL programme is the reference implementation for applying the revised version of the Technical Instructions on Air Quality Control (TA Luft) regarding stack height regulations (taking immissions into…

Airborne particles of biological origin. Bioaerosols are any collections of particles in the air that have fungi (spores, conidia, hyphal fragments), bacteria, viruses, and/or pollen, as well as their cell wall…

Wood preservatives, plant protection products, insecticides, moth repellents, fungicides, etc.

Biodiversity encompasses the variability among living organisms and the ecological complexes to which they belong. It serves as an indicator of ecosystem health and ensures the provision of ecosystem services such…

Also known as an SPA (Special Protected Area). These are usually large areas that form part of the European Natura 2000 network of protected areas, established to conserve wild bird species and their habitats. …

The number of pulses per unit of time generated by the movement of a rotating blade past a guide vane or housing element in fans. This can be, for example, the “tongue” of a centrifugal fan housing or the mounting…

The force exerted by a machine or an actuator on an ideally rigid body. It is therefore a quantity independent of the receiving structure.

Systems in which combustible gases are handled are usually equipped with one or more blowers. These are used, for example, to vent gases into the open air in a controlled manner, e.g. for maintenance and repair…

A technology for wireless data transmission over short distances, often used for audio devices and peripherals.

Bimodal multiple unit

Technical Terms of Delivery: Prestressed concrete sleepers with elastic bases – Elastic sleeper bases.

Technical Terms of Delivery: Elastic interlayers and intermediate plates.

The running gear of a rail vehicle. Rolling noise and aeroacoustic noise are caused by the bogie. Structure-borne noise is transmitted into the vehicle interior via the bogie’s connection to the car body. …

An acoustic phenomenon that occurs, among other places, in industrial shell-and-tube heat exchangers. Uniform vortex shedding, caused by the flow over the tube bundles, resonates with an acoustic room mode…

Numerical method – often used to calculate acoustic radiation.

A microphone mounted centrally on a defined rigid panel, using a primary and secondary windscreen. The windscreens effectively reduce wind-induced noise at the microphone.

The noise known as brake squealing occurs in vehicles equipped with disc brakes. In this case, the brake pads slide jerkily across the brake disc (slip-stick effect). The brake disc is excited to vibrate strongly at…

Test condition in accordance with DIN EN ISO 3095, in which the vehicle is braked to a stop.

Noise caused by braking. One common type of braking noise is squealing.

Best Available Techniques Reference Documents (see BAT guidelines).

Electronic devices such as televisions, radios, and stereo systems.

Building materials suspected of containing pollutants.

Historically: requirements imposed on a ship by the classification societies.

Statutory and normative requirements governing the construction of buildings and other structures. These are based on European standards, technical assessment documents, certificates of suitability in accordance…

Permanent damage to displays caused by static images.

Frequency weighting appropriate for human hearing at high sound levels.

Cadmium gets into the air through industrial emissions. Cadmium is toxic and carcinogenic. It is a heavy metal and is usually found only in combination with other substances.

Software for outdoor sound propagation calculations.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless and tasteless gas produced during the incomplete combustion of fuels and propellants. It is formed when there is insufficient oxygen available during combustion…

TRGS 905

The VDI 3786 series of guidelines standardises measurement procedures (including, in some cases, observation methods), covering calibration, recording and evaluation, as well as the installation and maintenance of…

A change to an installation or an operational area that is relevant to major accidents is, in accordance with Section 3(5b) of the Federal Immission Control Act (BImSchG), a change to an installation or an…

Describes the way in which a device is charged.

Measurement of inhalation exposure: solvents, product dusts.

The ADR classification of dangerous goods describes an international system for classifying dangerous goods transported by road, with the aim of identifying risks and implementing appropriate safety measures. …

Classification of waste that remains as residues following incineration (in a thermal treatment plant), in particular slag or ash.

A non-governmental organisation that establishes and administers technical standards for the construction and operation of ships and offshore installations.

The aim of adapting to global warming is to adjust to both climate changes that have already occurred and those expected in the future in such a way that potential damage can be largely avoided and emerging…

The climate as an object of protection refers to the preservation and stability of the global climate. This object of protection also refers to the climatic conditions in a specific region or at a specific…

The aim of climate impact assessment is to examine the regional effects of climate change and, on that basis, to develop appropriate measures for various sectors such as forestry, urban planning and water…

A climate model is a computer-based model used to calculate and predict the climate over a specific period of time. It is usually based on a meteorological model, such as those used for numerical weather prediction.…

Climate protection refers to all organisational, technical and other measures aimed at limiting man-made global warming and preventing, or at least mitigating, its potential consequences (mitigation). …

Determination of the acoustic properties and homogeneity of road surfaces through direct measurement of tyre-road noise in moving traffic using a measurement trailer. 

Static brightness variations in televisions caused by uneven backlighting.

European regulation on the classification, labelling and packaging of chemical substances and mixtures, aimed at communicating the associated hazards clearly and transparently in order to enhance the safety of…

The range of colours that can be displayed by a screen (e.g. sRGB, Adobe RGB, DCI-P3).

The colour rendering index Ra indicates how naturally an artificial light source renders colours. It depends on the spectral composition of the light.

Defines the range of colours that can be used.

On behalf of our clients, we compare the emissions caused by their plants at an international level.

A test in which several products are compared with one another to highlight their advantages and disadvantages.

A pressure wave, compression wave or density wave or contraction wave is a longitudinal wave in a fluid or solid. Transient fluctuations in pressure within a medium propagate as a wavefront. A fluctuation in…

Development of measurement concepts for monitoring construction sites during the building process, including noise monitoring via continuous measurements, observed short-term measurements or quarterly forecasts…

Construction noise is caused at construction sites by the construction or demolition of civil engineering structures. In Germany, noise from construction sites is assessed in accordance with the AVV Baulärm…

An expert assessment of construction noise based on the construction schedule and equipment lists, comparable construction sites, generalised analyses or empirical data.

Vibration emissions caused by construction site operations affecting neighbouring buildings, people or equipment/machinery inside buildings.

A technical device or measure designed to contain substances that pose a risk to water in the event of a spill or leak, and to prevent them from entering water bodies or the ground.

Recording and identifying building materials and furnishings suspected of containing contaminants.

Long-term acoustic measurements to determine noise emissions, e.g. to assess existing noise levels, monitor construction noise, and provide acoustic documentation and analysis in response to complaints from…

Vibrations occurring frequently enough to potentially cause material fatigue, and whose timing and duration are such as to cause a significant amplification of vibrations in the affected structure due to resonance…

Contrast describes the difference between the lightest and darkest areas of an image.

It is often necessary to represent objects geometrically in a different form; for example, LoD2 data can be converted to LoD1 data, or elevation points can be converted to contour lines.

A Coordinate Reference System (CRS for short) refers to a coordinate system that is associated with the real world and is uniquely identified by an EPSG code.

A (theoretical) system for accurately describing the position of an object.

Software from Vibes.Technology for dynamic substructuring.

Determination of the dynamic properties of an assembly by combining the properties of its individual components.

A crematorium – also known as a ‘Feuerhalle’ in Austria – is a place of burial where the deceased are laid to rest not by burial but by cremation. This process is known as cremation; the term ‘incineration’ is also…

The “critical load” is a concept used in environmental science to determine the maximum amount of a pollutant that a particular ecosystem can absorb without suffering harmful effects. It is an important indicator of…

Cultural heritage refers in particular to the physical manifestations of culture in the landscape and to architectural and archaeological monuments. Other tangible assets include, for example, structures that are of…

The umbrella term ‘curve noise’ refers to all types of noise that may be generated by rail vehicles when travelling along a curved track. The main types of curve noises are curve screeching or squealing, as well as…

Curve screeching or curve squealing occurs when rail vehicles travel along tight track curves. This causes the wheels to slip sideways in a jerky manner (the slip-stick effect), which excites the wheels into strong…

Value below which a substance input (e.g. nitrogen, acidifying substances, air pollutant concentrations, heavy metals) is so low that, according to current scientific knowledge, it can no longer be attributed to a…

A head-sized triangular arrangement with two external microphones.

The average value of the A-weighted equivalent continuous sound level LpAeq to which employees are exposed during a representative working day, based on a working time of 8 hours. The daily noise exposure level is…

Data centres are buildings or rooms that house the central IT infrastructure – such as servers and the technology required for their operation – for one or more companies or organisations. They play a key role in…

Adapting data into the format required for the respective question.

Analysis of the data flow between a device (e.g. a smartphone) and the servers it connects to which occurs when using an app or an internet-enabled device.

Computer-aided calculations of vibration emissions using the finite element method.

Determination of the dynamic properties of individual components by decoupling them from the overall system.

Defensive fire protection refers to all measures that are essentially taken by the fire brigade at the scene of the fire. This regulates, for example, the supply of fire-fighting water, areas for the fire brigade,…

Air pollutants can be transported over long distances in the atmosphere and subsequently deposited into ecosystems. This transfer of air pollutants from the atmosphere to the ground is called deposition. Air…

Heavy metals are released into the atmosphere⁠ through, among other things, the combustion of fossil fuels, waste incineration and industrial processes, such as metal processing. They enter ecosystems via…

Nitrogen compounds are primarily emitted into the atmosphere through the combustion of fossil fuels, e.g. in transport, and in agriculture. Combustion processes mainly produce oxidised nitrogen compounds, namely…

A major source of sulphur in the atmosphere is the combustion of sulphur-containing fuels, which releases sulphur dioxide. Another significant source is sulphur emissions from the oceans, which is why slightly…

Efficient scanning of the design space and creation of an approximate model.

Larger industrial plants, such as outdoor facilities, often consist of a large number of individual noise sources within a confined space. In a detailed analysis, the noise sources and transmission paths of an…

In a detailed acoustic planning, the design of a complex plant (e.g. an outdoor installation with a large number of noise sources) is examined and assessed from an acoustic perspective (including with regard to…

Unlike the basic analysis, the transfer functions of the planned building structure are determined in detail using a finite element model.

In acoustic measurements, background noise refers to sounds that do not originate from the source being measured. When conducting noise measurements on wind turbines, the turbine under assessment and, where…

The determination of gaseous emissions in the context of emission measurements involves the quantitative and qualitative measurement of gaseous pollutants released into the air from various sources, such as…

The determination of particulate emissions in the context of emission measurements involves the quantitative and qualitative measurement of particulate pollutants released into the air from various sources, such as…

Facilities for the storage, filling, or handling of substances hazardous to water may only be constructed, operated, or substantially modified if their suitability has been determined by the competent authority. …

Calculation and consideration of an existing actual impact (threshold of reasonableness in terms of technical planning) as a basis for the permitting authority’s decision-making.

A method for determining the required outlet height (usually in accordance with TA Luft) based on emissions in conjunction with the exhaust gas boundary conditions, while taking into account surrounding buildings,…

Digital terrain model.

Deutsche Gesellschaft für Nachhaltiges Bauen (German Sustainable Building Association), building certifications that require indoor air quality to be verified through measurements of VOCs and formaldehyde. …

Methods involving low exposure to asbestos during demolition, refurbishment and maintenance work.

Software for the design, calculation and visualisation of indoor and outdoor lighting systems.

The difference in sound level between a diffuse sound field in a reverberant room when transitioning to free-field conditions (e.g. via an opening in a building façade).

The difference between the sound pressure level at a distance of 1 m to 2 m from the inward-facing surface of a building element and the intensity level of the sound incident perpendicular to that same building…

Modelling of point, line or surface objects.

Series of standards (Parts 1 to 3) for the assessment and calculation of vibrations in the construction industry.

Standard for the preliminary determination of vibration parameters relating to structural vibrations.

Standard for the determination and assessment of the effects of vibrations on people in buildings.

Standard for the determination and assessment of vibration effects on structures.

Series of standards (Parts 1 & 2) on the measurement of vibration immissions (sensors and measurement methods).

Standard for determining the release of nitrosamines and nitrosatable substances from elastomers and rubber.

Measurement standard for the characterisation of the dynamic properties of track sections for pass-by noise measurements (measurement of the track decay rate).

Standard for the assessment of the acoustic performance of vehicle-to-vehicle interfaces.

Standard for the objective assessment of speech intelligibility using the speech transmission index.

Series of standards specifying requirements for acoustic signalling devices on rail vehicles and their metrological verification.

Standard for measuring rail and wheel roughness with regard to the generation of rolling noise.

Standard for the measurement of noise emissions from rail vehicles.

Standard for noise measurements in rail vehicles.

Occupational health and safety management systems – Requirements with instructions on use.

DIN EN ISO 45004 is a new international guideline designed to help organisations systematically monitor, measure, analyse and evaluate the performance of their occupational health and safety management system…

The three published parts of DIN ISO 12913 define the term “soundscape” and describe methods for data collection and analysis in relation to this term.  

Guideline on sound-insulating cladding for pipes, valves and flanges. It defines the acoustic performance of four pipe sound-insulation classes and addresses acoustic considerations relating to the selection, design…

Measurement method for determining the sound power level of noise from multi-source industrial installations (e.g. process areas in outdoor facilities) using so-called omnidirectional measurements. …

A calculation method for determining the sound pressure levels at specific points-of-interest (sound immission levels) based on the sound power levels of noise sources (sound emission levels). It is used, among…

Incineration of PVC, contamination in PCP.

In total, the group of dioxins comprises 75 polychlorinated dibenzo-para-dioxins (PCDD) and 135 polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDF) (also known as PCDD/PCDF). Dioxins are always present in the form of mixtures of…

Software from Vibes.Technology for specialised impulse hammer measurements and virtual point transformation.

Specialised measurement technology; a microphone with a pronounced directional characteristic which suppresses sound coming from the sides and from behind. It enables acoustic measurements to be carried out even in…

The measurement of the difference between the brightest and darkest areas of a display.

Colloquial term for an expert opinion to determine the safety margin or appropriate safety distance.

Section 50 of the Federal Immission Control Act (BImSchG) stipulates, among other things, that the distances between operational areas and corresponding uses requiring protection must be taken into account,…

Diesel multiple unit. A self-propelled multiple-unit train powered by internal combustion engines, typically diesel engines, that can operate independently without a separate locomotive.

The entrance doors of passenger trains must comply with the acoustic requirements set out in the TSI-PRM for mainline rolling stock. The signal frequencies, signal durations and sound pressure levels to be observed…

Container consisting of two independent walls, the space between which serves as a monitoring chamber equipped with a leak detection system that indicates any leakage in the inner or outer wall. …

Indicates the number of pixels per inch and is a measure of the resolution of displays or images.

The term ‘dust constituents’ generally refers to substances that can have a negative impact on both human health and the environment. These include, amongst others, arsenic, lead, cadmium and nickel, as well as…

The difference between the quietest and loudest sound a system can reproduce.

A condition in which a building is capable of withstanding the vibration amplitudes required to enable its intended use.

A dynamic property of elastic mounting elements that is required to assess the effectiveness of acoustic decoupling of equipment.  Calculation of dynamic stiffnesses – including via virtual point transformation in…

Description of complex components/structures through their individual components.

Measurements of exhaust gas cleaning systems to check and optimise their effectiveness.

Projects which, due to their characteristics, are classified under Annex 1 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act and marked with an ‘X’ are subject to the obligation to carry out an official environmental…

The EIA Report is used to assess the potential environmental impacts of a project. It serves as a basis for the authorities’ decision-making in the official environmental impact assessment (EIA). …

A very soft intermediate layer (compressed air or steel springs, PU or rubber elastomers, etc.) compared to the mounting surface, installed either beneath vibration sources (machines) or beneath sensitive areas…

In electroplating plants, components are treated in active baths. Employees may be exposed to chromium VI, heavy metals and inorganic acids. Our services: measurement of inhalation exposure: chromium VI, heavy…

An internal alarm and hazard prevention plan must be drawn up for upper-class operating areas in accordance with Section 10 of the Hazardous Incident Ordinance (StörfallV). It essentially contains information on the…

A special device in pipework systems or hoses which, in the event of excessive mechanical stress or impermissible deflections, initiates the automatic disconnection of the joint and seals the openings. …

An emission measurement is the systematic collection and analysis of pollutants released into the environment from a source, such as an industrial facility, a power plant, or a vehicle. The goal of emission…

Emission measurements are carried out to verify compliance with emission limits as specified in approval notices or relevant regulations, e.g. the 13th, 17th, 27th, 31st, and 44th Ordinance on the Implementation of…

The 13th Ordinance on the Implementation of the Federal Immission Control Act applies to the design and operation of large combustion plants, gas turbine plants, and internal combustion engine plants used to power…

The 17th Ordinance on the Implementation of the Federal Immission Control Act applies to the construction, design, and operation of waste incineration and waste co-incineration plants.

Emission measurements on internal combustion engines and boiler systems. The 44th Ordinance on the Implementation of the Federal Immission Control Act regulates emissions from medium-sized combustion, gas turbine,…

Emission measurements on biogas engines, verification of criteria for obtaining the formaldehyde bonus.

A plan for reducing emissions of volatile organic compounds from a plant, based on the requirements of Annex IV of the 31st BImSchV.

Electrical multiple unit

A structural assembly designed to reduce the transmission of sound from a noise source to the outside.

Describes the amount of energy a device consumes over a specific period of time and is expressed in kWh.

Transfer path analysis based on amplitude spectra.

This noise is caused by the train's drive system, such as traction motors, axle gearboxes and their auxiliary systems.

Subjective perception of roughness in speed-dependent noises with distinct engine modes.

Environmental compatibility is a measure of the direct and indirect impacts of a plan or project on the environment and its components (climate, air, soil, groundwater, water bodies, flora and fauna, landscape,…

Environmental concentration limits are the concentration or deposition levels of a substance, averaged over a specific period of time.

In an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) the effect of a project on people (including human health), animals, plants, biodiversity, soil, land, water, air, climate, the landscape and cultural heritage is…

An environmental report sets out the likely significant environmental impacts of a development plan, urban land-use plan or any other plan (Federal Transport Infrastructure Plan, Regional Development Plan, etc.) on…

A realistic reproduction of an area and the factors to be investigated for the respective type of study. Different software is used depending on the task at hand.

A four- or five-digit numerical code assigned to a coordinate reference system. For example, the EPSG code 25832 refers to the official coordinate system ETRS89 / UTM32N (without zone number), which is used in most…

Product of sound absorption coefficient and absorbing surface with this value alpha.

The layout of escape and rescue routes is a key element of fire safety, ensuring the safe evacuation and rescue of people in the event of a fire. Based on the planning documents, we draw up proposals for the safe…

EU Directive 2008/50/EC regulates air quality and clean air in Europe. It sets limit values for various pollutants, including nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), sulphur dioxide, benzene, carbon…

Expert report assessing whether the use of a water body (e.g. water abstraction, discharge of waste water) and/or the use of groundwater (e.g. groundwater extraction) may lead to a so-called deterioration in the…

If noise measurements are required, the employer must ensure that such measurements are carried out by competent persons and in accordance with the state of the art. Competent persons within the meaning of Section 5…

Within the meaning of the 31st BImSchV, an emission measurement station authorised under Section 29b of the Federal Immission Control Act with authorisation to measure organic substances and possessing relevant…

The explosion prevention plan sets out the comprehensive strategy and measures for preventing explosions within a company or facility. It includes the analysis and assessment of explosion risks, as well as the…

Explosion protection includes measures and precautions designed to prevent explosions in hazardous areas. This includes the identification and assessment of potential explosion risks, the implementation of technical…

The explosion protection document pursuant to Section 6(9) of the Hazardous Substances Ordinance is a formal and legally required document that details the measures and assessments set out in the explosion…

An explosion protection zone (or Ex zone for short) is a defined area in which an explosive atmosphere may form due to the presence of flammable substances (such as gases, vapours or dusts). These zones are…

The term ‘explosion safety testing’ generally refers to the tests carried out in accordance with Section 15 of the Industrial Safety Regulation (testing prior to initial commissioning or following a modification…

The noise level to which workers are exposed while performing a specific task at a specific location.

The extended obligations are set out in the second section of the Major Accidents Ordinance (Sections 9 – 12) and apply primarily to upper-class operating areas.

The range of wave propagation in which surface waves predominantly determine the propagation characteristics in free field conditions.

See SPB.

Factory inspection (Factory Acceptance Test).

Act on the Protection against Harmful Environmental Impacts Caused by Air Pollution, Noise, Vibrations, and Similar Phenomena (Federal Immission Control Act – BImSchG). It is intended to protect humans, wild and…

The publication by the competent authority of bodies within the meaning of § 26, of bodies within the meaning of a statutory regulation issued pursuant to this Act, or of experts within the meaning of § 29a,…

Protected areas under the Habitats Directive. FFH areas play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity and make a significant contribution to the protection of endangered species and habitats. The conservation and…

If significant adverse effects on a Natura 2000 site cannot be ruled out at the preliminary assessment stage, an in-depth assessment must be carried out to determine and evaluate whether the plan or project will…

An assessment to determine whether a plan or project is likely to cause significant adverse effects in a Natura 2000 site through its impact factors. If such adverse effects cannot be ruled out with sufficient…

A frequency analysis method based on the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT), which breaks down a signal into its individual frequency components and represents them as a spectrum.

Describes the area captured by a camera or lens.

Two-dimensional graphical representation of data and information.

A numerical method used to calculate the propagation of vibrations, taking into account detailed models, in order to assess the overall behaviour of a structure.

Depending on the design of an industrial building, a fire alarm system may be required by building codes. As part of the preparation of fire safety documentation and plans, we evaluate the design documents to ensure…

A fire compartment refers to a unit within or between buildings that is structurally separated for fire safety purposes. Fire compartments are separated by sufficient clearances or walls designed to meet fire safety…

Our fire protection experts assist clients in ensuring that buildings and structures are designed and constructed in compliance with the regulations. They prepare fire safety certificates, fire safety concepts and…

Fire resistance refers to the length of time a building component can withstand fire whilst its essential properties remain intact, in accordance with the uniform temperature time curve.

Fire safety is primarily aimed at preventing fires from starting, preventing the spread of fires and smoke, and protecting people and animals. While the protection of property is also a goal of fire safety, it is…

The fire safety certificate proves that the fire safety requirements under building codes have been met. The guidelines for preparing the certificate and the group of individuals authorized to prepare it vary by…

A fire safety concept meets the same requirements as a fire safety verification and thus serves to assess a project in terms of compliance with the fire safety requirements of building codes. The fire safety concept…

Fire safety plans are a visual representation of the fire safety requirements of a fire safety concept or fire safety certificate. They can be prepared in collaboration with our sister company, Müller-BBM Building…

A fire safety statement is a non-regulatory assessment of fire safety aspects outside the scope of a standard building code approval process. In consultation with the relevant authorities, it provides a simplified…

A fire-extinguishing system is used for structural fire protection. It operates automatically or semi-automatically and represents a high standard of fire protection measures.

Organisational fire safety essentially ensures the effectiveness of fire safety measures within the organisation. This includes maintenance and servicing, the signposting of escape and rescue routes, the appointment…

Fire-fighting water is required by the fire service to ensure adequate fire-fighting capabilities, taking into account the size and type of the building. The supply of fire-fighting water is usually provided via the…

Software embedded in a device’s hardware that controls its basic functions.

Noise generated by the flow of fluid or gases through pipes, ducts or fittings, as well as through flow machines (fans, compressors, pumps, etc.). 

The speed at which a liquid or gas flows.  

Subjective perception of the fluctuation intensity of a sound; unit: Vacil, slow amplitude modulations at approximately 4 Hz.

Description of the interaction between mechanical structures and surrounding fluids (air, water, etc.).

Fly ash is a fine, dust-like residue produced during the incineration of waste in a waste-to-energy plant and carried into the air by the hot flue gases.

Fogging refers to dark deposits found indoors, consisting mainly of semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs), which are analysed as part of a sampling process to rule out health risks – particularly those posed by…

The shadow cast calculations are based on the position of the sun – which varies according to location, day and time – and the technical data for the respective wind turbine type. The maximum possible astronomical…

Used in chipboards, for the preservation of paints, etc.

A ground surface where the propagation of vibrations is not affected by structures.

The number of oscillations per second, measured in hertz.

Analysis bandwidth in the human ear, similar to third-octave bands.

An operating condition in which the machine or plant is operated at its rated power (in power stations, this often corresponds to the highest noise emissions, excluding special operating conditions such as start-up…

DIN EN 14181 sets out the quality assurance requirements for automatic measurements of emissions into the air. Functional tests and calibrations play a central role in this standard.Functional test: This involves…

Measuring equipment used to monitor combustion conditions must be checked regularly for accuracy and reliability. This includes both regular functional testing (annually) and periodic calibration (every six years). …

Process by which chemical substances or mixtures are assessed for their hazardous properties and assigned to hazard classes and categories, with the aim of protecting human health and the environment. In the…

The AVV Baulärm applies to the operation of construction machinery on construction sites. It contains guidelines for noise immissions caused on construction sites, measurement methods and measures that can be…

A general term for all types of information that can be associated with a location on earth.

Raster or vector data is assigned to spatial coordinates within a coordinate reference system.

Act on the Protection against Harmful Environmental Effects Caused by Air Pollution, Noise, Vibrations, and Similar Phenomena (Federal Immission Control Act – BImSchG). It is intended to protect humans, wild and…

An internationally approved regulation designed to establish globally uniform criteria for the classification and labelling of hazardous chemical substances and mixtures.

Disturbing glare caused by solar reflections on reflective surfaces (solar parks, photovoltaic systems, glass facades, shiny facades, etc.) in the vicinity of or along traffic routes (road, rail, airport) can be…

An umbrella term for all global satellite navigation systems, such as GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou.

The US satellite navigation system.

Area-based /‘continuous’ objects whose properties are represented in a spatial grid. For example: .(geo)tif, .jpg/.jgw, .png/.pgw, .dmna, .grd.

A grid survey is a standardised procedure for determining odour immissions in the open air. See odour grid measurement.

Halogenated hydrocarbons can be found found in solvents, paint strippers and dry-cleaning products.

Hand-arm vibrations are mechanical vibrations in the frequency range between 8 Hz and 1,000 Hz which, when transmitted to the human hand-arm system, cause or may cause risks to the health and safety of employees. …

Changes to the properties of water bodies which adversely affect the public interest, in particular the public water supply, or which do not comply with the requirements of the Water Resources Act (WHG). …

Harbour Acceptance Test.

In accordance with Section 39 of the Ordinance on Installations for the Handling of Substances Hazardous to Water (AwSV), facilities must be classified by the operator into a hazard level, which depends on the…

A hazardous explosive atmosphere is a hazardous explosive mixture with air as the oxidising agent under atmospheric conditions (ambient temperature from -20 °C to +60 °C and pressure from 0.8 bar to 1.1 bar). …

According to TRGS 720, a hazardous explosive mixture is a mixture present in such quantities that special protective measures are required to safeguard the health and safety of employees or other persons. …

Measuring stations for hazardous substances are particularly suitable for assessing workplaces, provided they meet the detailed requirements of Annex 1 of TRGS 402 and DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025. This is the case for all…

A hazardous substance within the meaning of the Major Accidents Ordinance is a substance that is classified into a hazard category in accordance with Annex I of the Major Accidents Ordinance or is listed by name. …

When handling hazardous substances in certain quantities, building regulations may impose requirements that go beyond those set out in general building regulations. We assess these requirements by providing expert…

Hazardous substances management comprises all organizational and technical measures designed to ensure the safe handling of hazardous substances within a facility. It covers the entire lifecycle of hazardous…

A systematic inventory of all hazardous substances or mixtures used, stored, or processed within a company, institution, or facility. The hazardous substances inventory is a key tool in hazardous substances…

A digital interface standard for the transmission of video and audio signals.

A technique for displaying a wider dynamic range in images and videos, enabling both brighter and darker parts of the image to be shown at the same time.

The actual or potential exposure to noise that is likely to cause temporary or, in the worst case, permanent hearing loss. Hazards may include prolonged exposure to excessive noise or short-term noise peaks. …

Irreversible damage to hearing that can be caused by exposure to excessive noise. In cases of noise-induced hearing loss, the sensory cells in the cochlea of the inner ear are usually damaged to such an extent that…

Hearing protection is part of the employees' personal protective equipment (PPE). It is designed to reduce noise exposure directly at the ears. Typical types of hearing protection are moldable earplugs, pre-molded…

An aeroacoustic phenomenon. When fluid flows around heat exchanger tubes, periodic vortex shedding occurs. If the vortex shedding frequency is equal to an acoustic natural frequency of the duct, a clearly audible…

The effect of an odourant, which, for the purposes of this Directive, is assessed by ranking the intensity of the stimulus on a scale between the extremes of ‘extremely pleasant’ and ‘extremely unpleasant’ (VDI 3882…

See hedonic effect of odours.

In accordance with the TSI Noise, vehicles travelling at 250 km/h or faster.

In semiconductor production, hook-up support involves providing vibration engineering support during the installation of sensitive equipment and tools. This includes assessing the installation conditions, carrying…

Specialised measurement technology; a specially protected microphone that enables acoustic measurements to be carried out even in hot environments (particularly in hot exhaust systems).

A measuring instrument used to determine the flow velocity of liquids or gases. It works by placing a heated wire in the flow channel and measuring the rate at which the wire cools.

Analyses for biocides, PAHs, PCBs, plasticisers, flame retardants, heavy metals and fibres.

The hydraulic diameter of a measuring cross-section is the ratio of four times its area to its circumference.

Determination of the dynamic stiffness of bearing components (on a test bench or by means of an impulse hammer test).

The number of ignition events per unit of time in a gas engine. At this frequency, significant sound emission levels often occur, which are transmitted via the exhaust system and radiated by it. In combined heat and…

Illuminance (unit: lx) indicates the luminous flux falling from a light source onto a specific surface. Measurement of horizontal and vertical illuminance at buildings requiring protection / areas worthy of…

Describes the precision with which details are rendered in an image.

Measurement, determination and assessment of immissions (air pollutants).

An IMO (International Maritime Organisation) standard defining the minimum requirements for sound pressure levels in various areas of ships.

Impact assessments are carried out to evaluate any possible effects of handling hazardous substances in the workplace or operating area.

Environmental characteristics of a project or plan which could lead to positive or negative impacts on the environment or environmental assets (e.g. land take/sealing, air pollutant, noise and light emissions,…

Measurement of the dynamic structural response when excited by a defined force (impact hammer).

Importing and exporting data between different software programmes or formats.

Subjective perception of impulsiveness, maximum level per cycle, ratio of N5/N95 loudness percentiles.

On the basis of the applicable legal provisions and taking into account the specific project, we assess whether the operational capacity of the competent fire brigade is sufficient and examine whether the…

Measurement of air pollutants in homes, workspaces within buildings, and the interior of public buildings.

Sound pressure level inside the building at a distance of 1 m to 2 m from the relevant component or section of the building envelope. In the case of a diffuse sound field, this corresponds to the average sound…

Technical acoustics in industrial plants, e.g. in the chemical, petrochemical, cement and steel industries, etc., as well as in power stations. One of the aims is to reduce the noise generated by such plants in…

Assessment of existing conditions, forecasting during the planning process (e.g. traffic and car park lighting at logistics centres, flare operations at chemical plants).

The Industrial Building Directive sets out specific fire safety requirements for industrial buildings, which either apply in addition to the requirements of the Building Regulations or supplement them. These…

The Industrial Safety Regulation (BetrSichV) is a German regulation that governs the safe operation of work equipment and systems requiring monitoring. It establishes requirements for the provision and use of work…

Exposure of workers to hazardous substances through inhalation.

The initial state report documents the condition of the soil and groundwater on site before the plant is built or modified. It becomes part of the approval notice and serves as a binding basis for the initial…

Attenuation of a signal caused by an inserted component. Used for components passed through by flow (e.g. silencers).

Sound insulation is a measure of a building component’s ability to block the transmission of energy. It refers to the difference in energy levels between received and transmitted energy.

A structure typically comprising several layers of material applied to a pipe with the aim of improving its thermal and/or acoustic properties. Purely thermal insulation usually consists of an insulating material…

Sensors for determining the acoustic intensity of a sound.

A component between two carriages that enables passage from one carriage to the adjacent one.

A calculation method, in conjunction with DIN ISO 9613-2, for determining the sound level at specific points-of-interest, taking into account the characteristic of wind turbines as elevated sound sources. …

Interior acoustics refers to the noise levels and sound quality inside a train or rail vehicle. It encompasses noise generated by traction units, air-conditioning systems, ventilation systems and the interactions…

Office and workplace lighting (requirements in accordance with DIN EN 12464, Part 1 / ASR A3.4 – Technical Rules for Workplaces, Lighting and Lines of Sight).

Noise inside the vehicle (driver’s compartment, passenger compartment).

Indicates a device’s level of protection against the ingress of dust and water.

Standard requirements which must be complied with when setting up an ISO 10844-compliant measurement track and which must be verified by measurements at regular intervals.

Standard describing the laboratory measurement of vibro-acoustic transfer properties of resilient elements. Part 1: Principles and guidelines.

Standard describing the laboratory measurement of vibro-acoustic transfer properties of resilient elements. Part 2: Direct method for the determination of the dynamic stiffness of resilient supports for translatory…

Standard describing the laboratory measurement of the vibro-acoustic properties of resilient elements. Part 3: Indirect method for the determination of the dynamic stiffness of resilient supports for translatory…

Measurement of the influence of road surfaces on traffic noise - Part 1: Statistical pass-by method.

Measurement of the influence of road surfaces on traffic noise - Part 2: The close-proximity method.

Standard for determining the surface properties (textures) of road surfaces, including MPD values, MTD values, shape factor and much more.

International standard dealing with the measurement of vibrations on ships. Part 5: Guidelines for measurement, evaluation and reporting of vibration with regard to habitability on passenger and merchant ships. …

Assessment of the characteristics of network-enabled devices with regard to the security of the data collected and the software installed.

Method for calculating the dynamic stiffness (impedance) and wave propagation in layered ground; analytical method (no numerical approximation).

Jitter refers to small, irregular fluctuations in a signal which can cause interference.

Colloquial term for an expert report used to determine the appropriate safety distance.

A guideline with specific recommendations and instructions for the standardised procedure for the classification of waste in accordance with the Waste Catalogue Ordinance (AVV) in Germany.

Technical test specifications for determining the correction factor for noise emissions from road surface layers (DSD value) using a combination of CPX and SPB measurements.

Describes the time it takes for a monitor to respond to a change in the input signal.

The LAI (Guidelines on the Measurement, Assessment and Mitigation of Light Pollution issued by the Federal/State Working Group on Pollution Control) is intended to protect the general public and local communities…

The protection and sustainable use of land are key aspects of environmental protection. Land – whether in the form of agricultural land, woodland, wetlands or urban areas – is a vital resource that fulfils a wide…

Light pollution must be taken into account as a potentially harmful environmental impact within the framework of land-use planning/approval procedures (environmental report, etc.). Assessment of existing light…

According to the Federal Nature Conservation Act, the landscape is to be protected, preserved and developed in all its diversity, distinctiveness and beauty. The preservation of the landscape is essential for…

The LASAT programme is an alternative to carrying out propagation calculations in accordance with TA Luft and can be used in the same way as AUSTAL, for which LASAT is the parent model.

A measuring instrument for non-contact vibration measurement. The measurement is based on the laser Doppler principle. Particularly suitable for vibration measurements at more distant or hot measurement points, or…

The time delay involved in the transmission of data.

A display technology in which liquid crystals control the light from a backlight.

Lead is a toxic heavy metal. It rarely occurs in its elemental form but is usually found in compounds with other substances. In the air, lead is detected in the form of particulate matter.

The light colour of a light source (from warm to cool) is described by its colour temperature in kelvins. It is measured using a spectroradiometer.

Translucent backlighting on televisions, which usually occurs at the edges of the screen and is caused by tension during installation.  

A collective term for the metrological determination of light emissions (light sources) and light immissions (residents, protected areas, etc.) in accordance with DIN 5032, Part 7, the LAI Light Guideline, DIN…

A light rail vehicle for local transport, which operates predominantly on tracks separate from the road and at ground level.   

Creation of three-dimensional calculation models (taking into account luminous flux and illuminance distribution). Optimisation of lighting design (optimised layout, appropriate selection of lamps and luminaires,…

The list of substances in Annex I to the StörfallV sets out the hazard categories and specifically named substances together with their respective quantity thresholds.

Presentation of sounds for comparison and for the subjective assessment of sound quality or other acoustic characteristics.

Areas where substances hazardous to water in containers or packaging are handled during loading, unloading, storage or transport.

A technique used in LCDs whereby individual areas of the backlight are dimmed to increase the contrast.

Measurements taken with a sound level meter at a specific location, where necessary while following the employee’s movements with the microphone.

Three-dimensional representations of buildings at various levels of detail.

A psychoacoustic parameter that describes the subjective perception of the intensity of a sound. It is expressed in sone.

The design of a workplace or workstation to minimise the impact of noise on employees. This can be achieved as early as in the planning stage by, for example, selecting low-noise machinery or installing physical…

The lower explosive limit (LEL) is the lowest concentration of a flammable gas or combustible dust in the air at which an explosion is possible. Below this limit, the mixture is too lean to cause an explosion. The…

In a lower-class operating area, hazardous substances are present in quantities that reach or exceed the quantity thresholds specified in column 4 of the list of substances stated in Annex I to the Major Accidents…

The luminance (unit: cd/m²) of a light source or an illuminated surface determines the perceived brightness. Determination of luminance at workstations, advertising displays, glare surfaces, etc. Measurements using…

Matrix of correlation coefficients between eigenvectors.

We provide advice and support on the planning of research and industrial buildings with regard to the installation of magnetic-field-sensitive equipment (e.g. electron microscopes, MRI scanners, pattern generators,…

The main switch is used to electrically disconnect the vehicle from the overhead line. The sudden movement of components may cause disruptive, impulse-like noises both inside and outside the vehicle. …

A major accident prevention plan must be drawn up for an operational area (lower and upper class) in accordance with Section 8 of the Major Accidents Ordinance (StörfallV). It essentially sets out how the operator…

The Major Accidents Ordinance, or StörfallV for short, is the 12th Ordinance on the Implementation of the Federal Immission Control Act (12th BImSchV).

Colloquial term for the plan to prevent major accidents in accordance with Section 8 of the Major Accidents Ordinance (StörfallV).

Scenarios (colloquially known as ‘major-accident scenarios’) are used as a basis for analysing and assessing any potential impacts, taking into account the substances handled and the conditions within the plant or…

Creating a representation of a wide variety of objects and information within a coordinate reference system, e.g. overview maps of locations, noise maps, grid survey maps, and much more.

Mass concentration is defined as the ratio of the mass of the component being measured to the volume of the gas.

Mass flow is the ratio of the mass of the measured component flowing through the measuring cross-section to time. 

Mass flow density is the ratio of the mass flow rate of a measured component to the corresponding cross-sectional area. 

Analysis of drill cores to determine the absorption, absorption coefficient or flow resistance of surface layer samples.

The measurement axis is defined as the line within the measurement cross-section on which the measurement points are located. It is limited by the inner wall of the flue gas duct.

The measurement cross-section is the area at the sampling point that is perpendicular to the central axis.

This guideline specifies a method for measuring the bulk deposition of PCDD/F (polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/polychlorinated dibenzofurans) and PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls). All seventeen 2,3,7,8-substituted…

The standardised measurement method specified in this guideline is intended for the determination of PCDD/F in outdoor and indoor air.

Subject to approval of the competent authority, it is not necessary to determine existing pollution levels by means of separate measurements if, following an analysis of the results from monitoring stations within…

This guideline describes a method for determining the fibre concentration of inorganic fibrous particles in indoor or outdoor air and their classification into specific fibre classes (chrysotile, amphibole asbestos,…

This European Standard specifies a method for determining the atmospheric deposition of benz[a]anthracene (BaA), benzo[b]fluoranthene (BbF), benzo[j]fluoranthene (BjF), benzo[k]fluoranthene (BkF), benzo[a]pyrene…

This document specifies a standard method for determining the particle number concentration in ambient air in the range up to approximately 10⁷ cm⁻³ for averaging times of at least 1 minute. The standard method is…

Measurement of illuminance / luminance to determine the level of reflectance. Measurement of contrast in accordance with DIN 32984 (floor indicators in public spaces).

A measurement point is the location within the measurement cross-section at which a partial volume flow is sampled or at which measurement data is obtained directly.

The measurement section is the part of the flue gas duct that comprises the measurement cross-section(s) as well as the inlet and outlet sections.

Support in optimising plant operation or identifying the cause of a fault. 

As an alternative to European measurement methods, we also use EPA standards where necessary, e.g. for the measurement of condensibles in accordance with EPA202.

Measurement of greenhouse gases.

Including functional tests and calibration of the installed measuring equipment.

Determination of the vibration exposure for a representative exposure scenario. Where vibrations need to be measured, the employer must ensure that the vibration measurements are carried out by competent personnel…

Measurement of ammonia in outdoor air – sampling with passive collectors – photometric or ion chromatographic analysis.

This guideline describes the specific requirements for procedures for determining bulk deposition and wet deposition of water-soluble anions and cations. The application of the guideline enables the determination of…

The standard specifies a method for monitoring compliance with the European limit value for benzene in ambient air of 5 µg/m3. The method is based on the adsorption of benzene onto activated carbon, from which the…

The DIN EN 14662-3 standard specifies a quasi-continuous measurement method for determining the concentration of benzene in ambient air using automated sampling and gas chromatographic analysis. …

The standard specifies a passive sampling method for monitoring the European limit value for benzene of 5 µg/m3. The method is based on the passive adsorption of benzene onto activated carbon, from which it is…

Detection of airborne microorganisms and viruses in outdoor air – active sampling of bioaerosols.

This document specifies a continuous, non-dispersive infrared photometric measurement method for determining the concentration of carbon monoxide in air. It specifies the performance parameters and sets out the…

This guideline describes a standardised procedure for determining dust deposition using the Bergerhoff method. Dust deposition, as defined in this guideline, is a mass flow density, i.e. mass per unit area and time.…

The DIN EN 15853 standard specifies a validated method for determining the total deposition of mercury, which can be used within the framework of the European Council Directive on air quality and clean air for…

This guideline is intended for measuring the concentration of total gaseous mercury following manual sampling.

This European Standard specifies a continuous chemiluminescence measurement method for determining the concentration of nitrogen dioxide and nitric oxide in air. It specifies the performance parameters and sets out…

Determination of the concentration of nitrogen dioxide using a passive sampler.

This European standard specifies a continuous ultraviolet photometric measurement method for determining the concentration of ozone in air. It sets out the performance criteria and specifies the minimum requirements…

DIN EN 12341 is a European standard that describes a standard measurement procedure for determining the PM10 or PM2.5 mass concentration of particulate matter in ambient air. It covers a manual gravimetric method…

Guideline for automatic measuring equipment for determining dust concentrations (PM10; PM2.5).

The term ‘measurement station’ refers to the location at the flue gas duct in the area of the measurement cross-section(s). It is characterised by structural and technical installations such as measurement…

This European Standard specifies a continuous ultraviolet fluorescence measurement method for determining the concentration of sulphur dioxide in air. It specifies the performance criteria and sets out the minimum…

This document specifies a measurement method for determining particulate-bound benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) in air, which can be applied in the context of Directive 96/62/EC and Directive 2004/107/EC. …

DIN EN 14902 is a standard that specifies a method for determining particulate-bound lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As) and nickel (Ni) in ambient air. This standard is used within the framework of the European…

Characterisation of the dynamic behaviour of vibrating systems by means of their natural vibration parameters.

Mercury is deposited from the air into soil and water bodies via dry and wet deposition. Through various processes, such as biomethylation, the different species are continuously transformed and transferred between…

Measurement of inhalation exposure: heavy metals, cooling lubricants, mineral oils.

Metras is a model developed by the University of Hamburg for calculating mesoscale, prognostic, non-hydrostatic atmospheric flows. The model complies with the requirements of VDI 3783 Part 7 for the calculation of…

A light rail vehicle for local transport, which operates mainly on tracks separate from the road network and underground.

A two-dimensional arrangement of a large number of microphones (e.g. 40 to 120) in the shape of a circle, cross, star or spiral.

Measurement methods and acceptance criteria for airborne noise caused by on-board equipment or structural components of a vessel.

Measurement methods and acceptance criteria for strucure-borne noise caused by on-board equipment or structural components of a vessel.

Former standard: Measurement procedures and acceptance criteria for airborne noise caused by on-board equipment or structural components of ships.

Former standard: Measurement procedures and acceptance criteria for structure-borne noise caused by on-board equipment or structural components of ships.

United States Military Standards. A collection of various guidelines, procedural instructions and general rules.

Mixtures or solutions consisting of two or more substances (chemical substances) that are physically mixed together but not chemically bonded.

A method for analysing the natural vibration behaviour of structures.

A method for the targeted adaptation of numerical models to measurement data.

Monitoring tests to assess and approve renovation works.

A technique for improving video quality that analyzes motion and inserts additional frames and content to make motion appear smoother.

Measurement of inhalation exposure: DME, nitrogen oxides.

Forecasting in the planning process: light pollution caused by vehicle headlights (e.g. when exiting underground car parks).

Moulds are microorganisms that can grow on organic and inorganic building materials where there is sufficient moisture. They often develop as a result of moisture damage, condensation, thermal bridges, water ingress…

Mean profile depth in mm, determined in accordance with ISO 13473-1, which constitutes an acceptance criterion for ISO 10844 noise test tracks. 

Measurements using measurement systems designed to record a large number of parameters simultaneously.

A narrowband spectrum is a detailed representation of a signal in the frequency domain, obtained through a Fourier analysis (e.g. using FFT). In this process, the signal is broken down into many individual, narrow…

Natura 2000 is a network of protected areas within the European Union that aims to conserve Europe’s most valuable and threatened species and habitats. It was established under the Habitats Directive and the Birds…

A natural frequency is the frequency at which a component or assembly vibrates in a natural mode when excited by an external force. The natural frequency of a component or structure depends, among other things, on…

Light pollution, insect protection, effects on humans.

The region of wave propagation in which spatial waves predominantly determine the propagation characteristics in a free field.

In a network measurement, the measurement component to be determined is measured at all points of a specified grid within the measurement cross-section.

Describes a device’s ability to receive and process a weak or unstable network signal.

Noise, vibration, and harshness

Nickel enters the air via emissions, for example from power stations or industry. Nickel is a heavy metal. It is mainly present in the air in combination with other substances and is measured as particulate matter. …

Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) is a corrosive irritant gas; it causes immediate damage to the mucous membranes throughout the respiratory tract and can also irritate the eyes.

Nitrosamines can be detected and quantified by gas chromatography..

Nitrosamines are carcinogenic substances that can be formed from secondary amines through the action of nitrosating reagents. They can be found, for example, in the air, in food, in rubber products, in packaging…

Noise refers to sounds (acoustic waves) which, due to their characteristics (primarily volume), can have a disruptive, annoying or harmful effect on the environment.

Noise allotments are generally established in accordance with DIN 45691, “Noise allotment”. This standard regulates, within the context of the land-use plan, the permissible noise emission levels from commercial…

The Noise and Vibration Occupational Safety and Health Regulation (LärmVibrationsArbSchV) is designed to protect workers from actual and potential risks to their health and safety caused by noise or vibrations at…

A technique for reducing ambient noise in headphones or microphones.

Design of offices to reduce disruptive noise that may affect the employees’ ability to work. This includes, for example, sound insulation against external noise, room acoustics measures, and the reduction of noise…

Personal monitoring using a dosimeter is particularly suitable for mobile workers carrying out a wide variety of tasks and for recording noise exposure over a long period of time.

A computational noise forecast makes it possible to predict, as early as the planning stage, the noise emitted by neighbouring installations or facilities (roads, railways, industrial premises, sports facilities,…

Noise transmitted through piping and radiated into the surrounding environment. The noise radiated to the outside rarely results from sounds generated by the flow through the pipe. It is usually introduced into the…

A process designed to ensure compliance with acoustic requirements (whether statutory or project-specific). This process comprises the following steps: assessment during the tender phase, acoustic prediction of…

An efficient noise reduction concept can be developed based on a detailed acoustic analysis or detailed planning. In addition to technically feasible noise reduction measures for new and existing equipment, as many…

Measures to reduce noise emissions through design modifications to the blades (e.g., adding serrations), to turbine components (e.g. by using active dampers), or by selecting quieter operating modes. …

If noise levels in the workplace exceed the upper trigger values set out in the Noise and Vibration Regulation (LärmVibrationsArbSchV), the employer is obliged to implement a noise reduction programme. This…

In practice, the term ‘noise register’ refers to the documentation of the local noise situation. It is usually presented graphically on the basis of site plans or hall layouts. In addition to the determined sound…

A test track required for measuring the driving and engine noise of vehicles, which must be constructed in accordance with the specifications of ISO 11844 and requires regular certification.

Solving any non-linear optimisation problems.

Notification is a process whereby a competent national authority officially recognises and registers an organisation or body authorised to carry out specific tasks under EU directives or regulations. These…

The 41st BImSchV (Forty-first Regulation implementing the Federal Immission Control Act) sets out the requirements for the notification of bodies responsible for measurements and analyses. Müller-BBM is notified in…

A notified measuring station pursuant to Section 29b of the Federal Immission Control Act (BImSchG) is a testing organisation that carries out measurements of emissions and immissions at or within the impact area of…

Hazards in the workplace can compromise safety and health and, in some circumstances, lead to damage to health. Occupational health care is intended to help identify and prevent work-related illnesses, including…

Our EMF occupational safety experts support you in preparing risk assessments for employees who are exposed to increased electrical, magnetic or electromagnetic fields in their working environment – especially for…

A frequency range with a ratio of 2 : 1. The upper cut-off frequency is twice as high as the lower frequency.

The number of odour units in one cubic metre of gas under standard conditions (DIN EN 13725).

Measurement-based determination of odourant concentration, odourant flow and discharge conditions from localised and diffuse emission sources (e.g. as part of monitoring measurements) in accordance with DIN EN…

The total quantity of odorous substances contained in a liquid (e.g. process water or waste water) that can be expelled from the liquid (VDI 3885 Part 1).

The odour flow is the quantity of odour units passing through a defined area per unit of time. It is the product of the odour concentration, the discharge velocity and the discharge area, or the product of the odour…

A method for measuring odour immissions within a defined assessment area, using qualified human assessors over a sufficiently long period to be representative of the meteorological conditions at that location. The…

Determination of the odour-causing substances released when using raw materials (e.g. paints, solvents, etc.), expressed as a proportion of the mass of the raw material or in relation to other reference values. …

Odour propagation calculation.

Measurement-based assessment of odours in the field (e.g. in the vicinity of facilities, at points-of-interest, in planned development areas, etc.) using odour grid measurements or odour plume measurements. …

The strength of the odour perception triggered by an odour stimulus (VDI 3882 Part 1).

A collective term for the metrological determination of odours in the exhaust air of emission sources (odour emission measurement) or in ambient air (odour immission measurement).

Odour nuisance refers to perceptible odours in indoor spaces, which are detected through air sampling inside the room and close to the source in order to identify odour-causing substances by measurements. …

A method for determining the extent of the exhaust air plume from an odour emission source by determining the presence or absence of detectable odours at the edge of the plume for a specific emission scenario under…

The concentration of an odourant at the threshold of sensory perception or detectability, which does not provide any information about the sensory effect of an odourant at concentrations above this value (VDI 3940…

The quantity of an odourant or several odourants which, when vaporised into one cubic metre of neutral air under standard conditions, elicits the same physiological response from a group of test subjects (perception…

A substance that stimulates the human sense of smell in such a way that an odour is perceived (DIN EN 13725).

A branch of acoustics focusing on the generation and transmission of sound into the sea resulting from the construction and operation of offshore wind farms and offshore platforms.

OHS stands for Occupational Health and Safety. It refers to a management system, usually based on ISO 45001, which helps organisations to systematically reduce risks, prevent accidents at work and create a safe and…

A display technology in which each pixel generates its own light. OLEDs are characterised by deep blacks, high contrast and fast response times.

A device in which a sample of odorous gas is diluted with neutral air in a defined ratio and presented to test subjects (in accordance with DIN EN 13725). It is used to determine the odour thresholds of odorous gas…

Measurement of the test subject’s response to odour stimuli (in accordance with DIN EN 13725). The method standardised in accordance with DIN EN 13725 is used to determine the concentration of odorous substances in…

A measurement method standardised in DIN ISO 8297 for determining the sound power level relevant to immission from multi-source industrial installations (e.g. process fields in outdoor facilities). Directional…

Microphone without a directional pattern. Picks up sound from virtually all directions. Standard microphone for common sound level metres. Omnidirectional microphones are used, for example, for measuring sound…

Online formaldehyde measurement in accordance with VDI 3862, Part 8. 

TPA, based on measurement data recorded during operation. 

A method for identifying the vibration behaviour of components during operation (including through the visualisation of vibration modes). 

The creation of a component design from an initial design, which is optimised for a specific load.

Optimisation by adjusting the size of each element in a finite element model..

Analysis of the harmonics at a given rotational speed/frequency.

This Ordinance transposes the EU Air Quality Directive 2008/50/EC into German law. The aim is to prevent or reduce the harmful effects of air pollutants on human health and the environment. Compliance with the…

Preparation of expert reports within the scope of authorisation procedures under immission control legislation. 

The Ordinance on Noise Protection for Sports Facilities regulates the permissible noise immissions arising from the operation of sports facilities, provided that these do not require a permit under Section 4 of the…

Conducting accredited and notified immission measurements (outdoor air measurements).

This does not refer to parks, gardens or similar spaces designed by landscape architects, but rather to industrial facilities where the noise sources are predominantly located outdoors, such as refineries or…

Open space lighting, facility lighting, object lighting, advertising installations (requirements according to DIN EN 12464, Part 2 / DIN EN 12193 / ASR A3.4).

The energy-weighted average level of a signal across the frequency range under consideration. The broadband overall level combines all relevant frequency components into a single parameter and is used to assess the…

Ozone, a colourless and toxic gas, is one of the most important trace gases in the atmosphere. The natural ozone layer, which is found at an altitude of 20 to 30 kilometres in the atmosphere, protects the earth from…

Software from Müller-BBM VAS for vibroacoustic analyses.

Pantographs usually only produce significant noise at very high speeds. This noise is caused by the interaction of air with the component (aeroacoustic noise).

Noises generated by rail vehicles during parking. VDV Notice 1541 recommends acoustic requirements for railway vehicles.

Test situation in accordance with DIN EN ISO 3095, where the vehicle passes a measuring point at a constant speed.

Measurement of inhalation exposure: formaldehyde, solvents.

The peak sound pressure level LpC,peak is the highest value of the sound pressure level with the ‘C’ frequency weighting and the ‘peak’ time weighting within the measurement period. The peak sound pressure level…

The threshold of perception at which vibrations can be consciously felt. The perceptibility threshold depends heavily on the position and also varies considerably from person to person. Consequently, only…

Vibration amplitudes that exceed the threshold of perceptibility.

Direct measurement of the noise to which employees are exposed; where applicable, during different activities or at different workstations. As a rule, measurements are taken close to the ear. …

An algorithm for the objective measurement of speech quality.

Describes the overall impression of a photo, influenced by factors such as resolution, sharpness, contrast, colour reproduction, noise levels and dynamic range.

Picture quality describes the overall perception of an image, influenced by factors such as sharpness, contrast, color reproduction, and signal-to-noise ratio. 

Assessment of all types of displays (televisions, monitors, smartphones, etc.) based on parameters such as color reproduction, sharpness, contrast, and motion handling by a trained panel. 

The smallest, individually controllable image point on a display.

The number of pixels per inch (ppi), which determines a display’s resolution.

These protected resources comprise all wild plants and animals. In addition, protected areas, protected biotopes and species conservation within the meaning of the Federal Nature Conservation Act are also included…

Plastics, paints, polyurethane foams. 

Verification of the validity of (geo)data.

See odour plume measurements.

Particulate matter (PM10) refers to particles with an aerodynamic diameter of less than 10 micrometres (µm).

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) refers to particles with an aerodynamic diameter of less than 10 micrometres (µm).

Profile created by combining guided associations with a concept (fragrance, stench) or with the odour of a facility (e.g. from a bakery, sewage treatment plant) and the evaluation of these, which describes the…

In common usage, the term ‘pollutants’ refers to substances or mixtures of substances in the environment that may be harmful to humans, animals, plants, other organisms or entire ecosystems. The harm may result…

An algorithm for the objective measurement of speech quality.

Permanently elastic joint sealants, capacitors.

Combustion products, carbolineum, tar products.

The power consumption indicates the electrical power of a device. It is the product of voltage and current and is expressed in watts (W).

A preliminary EIA (general or site-specific preliminary assessment of the individual case) is carried out to determine, on a rough basis, whether a project, due to its characteristics (e.g. scale, risk of…

Preventative fire safety encompasses all measures designed to prevent the outbreak and spread of fires. These include structural fire safety measures, technical fire safety measures and organisational fire safety…

Primary explosion protection measures are defined as measures which prevent the formation of hazardous explosive atmospheres and/or hazardous explosive mixtures or, where complete prevention is not possible, limit…

Noise control measures aimed at reducing noise generation through design-related measures applied at the units or through the selection of quieter units offering the same performance.

Plant components that are designed to contain substances hazardous to water and serve to prevent these substances from escaping.

A test in which the quality of one or more products is assessed in order to highlight their advantages and disadvantages.

In the Geodata & Environmental Simulation team, small routines are developed using various programming languages (e.g. Python, LUA, MATLAB – and, in future, C#) and programming environments (Spyder, Visual Studio,…

Calculation method for determining immissions caused by the propagation of emissions, taking into account meteorological data and, where applicable, terrain and building geometry.

Propagation calculations are performed to determine the propagation of hazardous substances into the environment.

The following environmental components are referred to as protected resources: people, animals, plants, biodiversity, land, soil, water, air, climate, landscape, cultural heritage and other material assets. …

A description of the subjective perception of sounds and how the human ear works.

A public address system is a sound reinforcement system designed primarily for the transmission of information. Key design features of a public address system are speech intelligibility and volume. …

Public information must be drawn up for an operational area (lower and upper class) in accordance with Section 8a of the StörfallV. It contains key information on the operational area. The details that must be…

A programming language used by the Geodata & Environmental Simulation team to automate processes or develop new tools.

A mobile application for capturing, editing and visualising georeferenced data in the field.

Open-source software with a Python interface for importing, processing, preparing, displaying and exporting geodata.

The quantity threshold set out in Annex I of the StörfallV is the limit value used to classify operational areas into the lower or upper class. 

The rate at which the amplitude of rail vibration decays in longitudinal direction of the rail. Alongside rail roughness, this is one of the most important parameters influencing the level of rolling noise. The…

The profile of the rail head is continually restored by grinding. In addition to reprofiling grinding, there is also the acoustic grinding process, which results in low surface roughness on the rail running…

Minor irregularities on the rail running surface which cause the wheel and rail to vibrate. The rougher the rail running surface, the greater the rolling noise.

A sub-field of acoustics and railway acoustics focusing on rail vehicles. It comprises the sub-fields of sound sources (origin of rolling noise, components), sound propagation within and from structures typical of…

A branch of acoustics focusing on noise generation in railway vehicles and infrastructure. This includes, among other things, noise generation in rail vehicles (rail vehicle acoustics) as well as the influence of…

Railway noise refers to the noise generated by trains and trams in the neighbourhood.

Determining the range of local networks such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth using objective measurement methods and grid surveys. 

For the design of exhaust gas cleaning systems. 

An acoustic surface wave is a structure-borne sound wave that propagates in a plane on a surface, i.e. in only two dimensions.

In emission measurements, a reference method refers to a procedure established by convention and described in standards, regulations or guidelines for determining pollutant concentrations in exhaust gases or other…

Number of images displayed per second.

The number of frames per second, which is important for smooth motion, particularly in gaming.

This regulation specifies the nature and scope of the necessary noise control measures for rooms requiring protection within buildings, insofar as the permissible emission limit values for the operation of…

Regulations governing the domestic and cross-border transport of dangerous goods by road, rail and inland waterway.

Installations are classified as relevant to major accidents if, due to the nature, quantity and handling of hazardous substances, there is a risk of major accidents that could have significant consequences for human…

At the representative measuring point, the local mass flow density of a measurement component corresponds to the mass flow density averaged over the entire measurement cross-section. 

The required containment capacity for spilled water-polluting substances is regulated in § 18(3) and (4), § 21(1) of the AwSV, and in Chapter 3, Section 3 of the AwSV.

Indicates the number of pixels in an image or display and affects the level of detail.

The time it takes for a pixel to change from one state to another. A fast response time is important for smooth motion, particularly in games and videos. 

ReSyMeSa stands for ‘Recherchesystem Messstellen und Sachverständige‘ (Search System for Monitoring Stations and Experts). It is a system established in Germany to improve efficiency and transparency in the…

A diffuse sound field in which the same sound pressure level is present at every point throughout the room.

The systematic identification of potential hazards and the subsequent determination of measures to prevent these hazards or mitigate their effects.

The responsibility for carrying out a risk assessment, including for noise and vibrations at the workplace, lies with the employer. The employer must, among other things, determine whether employees are exposed to,…

The Occupational Safety and Health Act requires employers to assess working conditions and, in doing so, to identify hazards. They must evaluate the risks to employees, devise appropriate measures, verify their…

Guideline on Road Noise Protection. It describes the emission characteristics of road traffic noise and sets out noise reduction values for various road surface layers.

Carrying out mathematical forecasts for rail and road traffic, including proposals for implementation and, where necessary, assessing the suitability of measures on the basis of risk analyses. …

Measurement of inhalation exposure: bitumen fumes. 

Road traffic noise refers to the noise in the neighbourhood generated by road traffic. According to relevant studies, road traffic noise causes the highest levels of noise pollution in Germany. …

Rolling noise is a major source of rail traffic noise. It is caused by the wheels rolling along the rails. Unevenness in the contact surfaces between the wheel and the rail causes both to vibrate, and this vibration…

Subjective perception of the roughness of a sound; unit: Asper; rapid amplitude modulations at approximately 30 to 100 Hz.

Colloquial term for the concept for the prevention of major accidents in accordance with Section 8 of the Major Accidents Ordinance.

A document containing detailed information on the hazards, properties, handling, storage and disposal of chemical substances and mixtures. A safety data sheet is mandatory for marketing in accordance with the CLP…

The so-called safety distance is the recommended distance for operational areas without detailed information, which can be determined on the basis of the substances handled in accordance with guideline KAS-18,…

All operational areas covered by the Major Accidents Ordinance must have a Safety Management System (SMS) in place. This obligation is set out in Section 8 of the Major Accidents Ordinance, and Annex III of the…

A safety report must be drawn up for an operational area of the upper class in accordance with Section 9 of the StörfallV. It essentially contains information on how the operator should deal with the potential…

A measure of the amount of electromagnetic radiation absorbed by the human body when a mobile phone is used.

Sea Acceptance Test.

A scanning electron microscope enables the imaging of surfaces at the nanometre scale.

Before an environmental impact assessment (EIA) is carried out, a so-called scoping meeting may be held to discuss the scope of the EIA. To this end, the project proponent provides a suitable document setting out,…

The natural frequency of a rigid body, calculated from the mass per unit area of a floating screed slab and the stiffness of the impact sound insulation material, based on a single-mass oscillator model. …

Sound attenuation caused by a component or obstacle located in the propagation path between the source and the receiving point.

Vibrations in the building structure or in the room’s boundary surfaces (walls and, in particular, floor slabs) generate low-frequency airborne sound, known as ‘secondary airborne sound’, which can be heard when it…

Secondary explosion protection measures are defined as measures designed to prevent, as far as possible, potential ignition sources in components or parts of the plant where there is a risk of explosion. The…

Noise control measures designed to reduce noise along the sound propagation path. This can be achieved, for example, by using silencers, sound-insulating casings and soundproof enclosures, as well as noise barriers,…

Retention facilities in accordance with Section 2(16) of the AwSV, which serve to retain substances hazardous to water.

Self-noise refers to sound components generated by the acoustic measurement system itself.

An EDX detector fitted to a scanning electron microscope (SEM) makes it possible to determine the elemental composition.

Semiconductor manufacturing frequently involves processes that are highly sensitive to vibration. At the same time, technical building services, utility supply systems, air distribution systems and the production…

FEMtools software from DDS: calculation of the sensitivities of a modal response variable (natural frequencies, MAC, FRF, etc.) to variations in the model parameters of FE models. A very fast method. …

Calculation of the expected service life of a dynamic system until failure.

A vector dataset that always consists of at least one .shp file (geometry), one .shx file (indexing to link geometry and attribute data) and one .dbf file (attribute data). Mehr erfahren

Optimisation of the shape of existing components. 

Subjective perception of the sharpness of a sound; unit: Acum; assessment of high frequencies.

Shear wave velocity describes the speed at which shear waves propagate through the ground and is an important parameter in soil dynamics. It provides information about the stiffness of the subsoil and is frequently…

A branch of acoustics focusing on the generation and propagation of sound on ships. It also covers the emission of sound by watercraft into the surrounding water.

Vibrations whose frequency of occurrence is insufficient to cause material fatigue, and whose timing and duration are not such as to produce a significant amplification of the vibrations in the affected structure…

The signal horn is an acoustic warning device fitted to rail vehicles. It must comply with the TSI Loc&Pas requirements regarding the signal level in front of the vehicle, in accordance with DIN EN 15153-2 or DIN EN…

SIL stands for ‘Safety Integrity Level’ and is a measure of the functional safety of electrical, electronic and programmable safety-related systems. The SIL classification, which is divided into four levels (SIL 1…

A mostly passive component capable of extracting energy from incident sound while, at the same time, obstructing the flow of a medium (e.g. air, exhaust gases, etc.) through it as little as possible. Depending on…

Within the scope of a site assessment, the vibration-related boundary conditions of a planned or existing site are examined. This involves identifying and evaluating impacts from traffic, industrial plants or other…

Optimisation of component parameters such as cross-section and thickness. 

Slag (bottom ash) is the solid residue produced following the incineration of waste in a waste-to-energy plant (WTE).

Specialised measurement technology. Slit-tube probes are used for acoustic measurements in flowing media. They reduce pressure fluctuations caused by flow turbulence at the microphone, which are incorrectly…

Measures for smoke and heat extraction serve both to clear smoke from rooms and buildings to ensure the safe evacuation and rescue of people, and to preserve the structural integrity of a building by preventing…

Railway applications – Track structure – Performance requirements for rail fastening systems – Part 6: Special fastening systems for vibration reduction (pre-standard).

Soil is an essential component of our ecosystem and fulfils numerous functions that are indispensable to life on earth. It serves as a habitat for numerous organisms, stores water and nutrients, and acts as a filter…

A procedure in accordance with Annex V of the 31st BImSchV for determining the solvent consumption and emissions of a plant. Within this framework, the solvent balance is also used to demonstrate compliance with the…

A unit of measurement for loudness, which describes the subjective perception of volume. 

A parameter used to determine the sound absorption of a surface. It is required for the acceptance of an ISO 10844-compliant test track (in accordance with, amongst others, ISO 13472-2).

A measure of the proportion of the total incident sound that is absorbed. alpha = 0 means no absorption (= 100 % reflection).

Developing and locating mostly technical and functional sounds. 

Sound that is radiated (emitted) from a sound source.

The sound power level relevant to immission for wind turbines is determined on the basis of DIN EN 61400-11 and, in Germany, in accordance with the FGW guideline TR1.

Noise that affects the recipient (e.g. at the point-of-interest).

The measurements to determine sound immission of wind turbines are carried out at points-of-interest or substitute points-of-interest in accordance with the Technical Instructions on Noise Control (TA Lärm) using a…

Specialised measurement technology. The two-microphone technique makes it possible to determine the sound intensity of a noise source. Among other things, this enables the sound power of a noise source to be…

A technique for determining the position of a sound source.

A measure of the total energy of sound radiated by a sound source.

The sound power, or acoustic power, is the rate at which sound energy is emitted, reflected, transmitted or received per unit of time.

The sound power level of noise emitted by multi-source industrial installations (e.g. process fields in open-air plants). It takes into account the internal shielding within an installation and serves as input…

The sound power level of the noise emitted by a wind turbine, which typically depends on wind speed and rotor speed.

The quality of a sound.

Describes the perceptibility of a sound, which is influenced by factors such as timbre, spatiality, dynamics and distortion. 

Assessment of consumer electronics devices based on parameters such as naturalness, dynamics, bass reproduction and the spatial quality of all types of loudspeakers, carried out by a trained panel. …

Assessment of consumer electronics devices by a trained panel, based on parameters such as naturalness, dynamic range, bass reproduction and the spatial quality of all types of loudspeakers.

The proportion of the sound power radiated by a building element which results from the internal sound pressure level, the transmission loss of the element, its surface area and/or the share of sound caused by…

The proportion of the sound power generated by a noise source that is radiated to the outside.

One of the most important noise-reduction measures for minimising sound radiation from pipework. Sound-insulating pipe cladding usually consists of an insulating material and an outer sheathing. …

The term ‘soundscape’ refers to a perceptual object that arises from the acoustic experience of an environment. 

The calculated radiated sound pressure level of a sound source at a distance of 1 m. 

Elastic mounting of excitation sources, e.g. rotating machinery, pumps, fans, etc. to reduce the dynamic forces transmitted to the installation site.

Software from Vibes.Technology for identifying (structure-borne noise) sources (e.g. blocked forces). 

An assessment of the proportion of speech that is understood. 

Speech quality describes the intelligibility and naturalness of spoken language, which is affected by factors such as noise, echo and distortion.

Assessment of existing facilities, forecasting as part of the planning process (e.g. football pitch).

Test stand for the experimental determination of the dynamic stiffness of spring elements.

Parameter used to describe the frequency-dependent emission characteristics of an (exhaust) stack.

With regard to emission measurements, a standard reference method is a reference method whose use is prescribed by European or national legislation.

Test situation in accordance with DIN EN ISO 3095, where the vehicle is tested at a standstill.

Test situation in accordance with DIN EN ISO 3095 in which the vehicle starts from a standstill.

Operating status of a plant between shutdown/cold standby and full load.

Special operating procedures to avert danger. An operational emergency is an unusual, unforeseeable event that occurs suddenly, is beyond the operator’s control, and carries the risk of disproportionate damage. …

The term 'state of the art' stands for the state of development of advanced processes, installations or operating methods which shall ensure the practical suitability of a measure for limiting emissions into the…

A term from the Technical Instructions on Noise Control (TA Lärm) relating to the calculation of intermediate values in the context of mixed-use developments. Where residential areas and industrial plants are…

A method for determining the noise reduction values of road surface layers in moving traffic at a defined road cross-section.

A method for determining the noise reduction values of road surface layers in moving traffic at a defined road cross-section.

Speech Transmission Index for public address systems; a measure derived using a simplified version of the STI method.

Sensors for measuring strain. Frequently used to determine component tension during operation.

A Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) must be carried out for major planning processes with significant environmental implications, such as federal transport infrastructure planning, regional planning and local…

An aeroacoustic phenomenon. A tonal sound emission excited by periodic vortex shedding.

Machines are often not designed for ‘endless’ service life, but specifically to achieve a minimum service life under typical operating conditions. The design objective should be to ensure at least the structural…

A discipline concerned with the analysis of structural vibrations. Unlike earthquake engineering, the focus here is often not on structural stability but on serviceability. 

Structural fire protection encompasses all structural measures designed to ensure fire safety. This includes the provision of access routes within buildings and fire service areas, as well as the creation of zones…

Vibration measurements on structures, often in the audible frequency range, with the aim of being able to derive the structure’s airborne noise emission. Frequently used when determining sound power in environments…

Sound that propagates through a solid.

Pipe supports can transmit structure-borne sound from the pipework to the supporting steel structure. This structure-borne sound is then radiated by the supporting structures as airborne sound and represents a…

A document that summarises basic information about a single chemical substance, without providing a hazard classification.

Substances whose water hazard properties are indisputable, but which are not to be classified in a water hazard class in accordance with Section 3(1) of the Ordinance on Installations for the Handling of Substances…

Substances hazardous to water are substances and mixtures which are capable of causing adverse changes to water quality, either on a permanent basis or to a significant extent.

Substances hazardous to water bodies are substances and mixtures which, if released, are capable of causing changes to the properties of water bodies (water quality, aquatic ecology, hydromorphology) that adversely…

Sulphur dioxide irritates the mucous membranes and can cause eye irritation and respiratory problems.

A measuring system from Müller BBM Industry Solutions GmbH for determining surface properties (MPD value, form factor, flatness, ZTM, WLP, etc.). 

Parameters used to determine the roughness of a surface; a required parameter (MPD) for the acceptance of a measurement track compliant with ISO 10844, e.g. using the ‘surface drone’ measurement system. …

Synthetic mineral fibres (SMF) are frequently used as insulation material in the construction industry. They can release respirable fibres and therefore pose a health risk. Detection is possible using SEM-EDX. …

Systematic hazard analyses are carried out to systematically assess the hazards that may arise from an operational area. Methods such as HAZOP, PAAG, LOPA, etc. are used for this purpose. 

Calculated sound pressure level of a sound source (ship) at a distance of 1 m.

Technical fire protection comprises technical fire protection measures, including extinguishing systems, alarm systems, fire alarm systems, fire dampers and rated opening closures.

The Technical Guideline on Air Quality Control (TA Luft) is the ‘First General Administrative Regulation under the Federal Immission Control Act’ issued by the German Federal Government. The Technical Guideline on…

The Technical Instructions on Noise Control (TA Lärm) are designed to protect the general public and local communities from harmful environmental impacts caused by noise, and to prevent such impacts arising from…

These rules set out in detail the requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Ordinance on Noise and Vibration and reflect the state of the art in occupational medicine and occupational hygiene, as well as…

Connections designed in such a way that they do not allow any leakage or permeation of liquids, gases or other substances.

A connection that remains leak-tight throughout the entire service life of a system or under all intended operating conditions, without requiring maintenance or repair.

If it is not possible to reliably prevent the occurrence and ignition of a hazardous explosive atmosphere and/or a hazardous explosive mixture, appropriate protective measures (tertiary explosion protection…

A test subject qualified to assess samples of odourous gases using dynamic olfactometry (DIN EN 13725). 

Groups of testers who are qualified to assess samples of odourous gases using dynamic olfactometry (DIN EN 13725).

1/3 of an octave.

Management strategy and risk assessment cascade when construction noise exceeds the constitutional threshold of what is reasonable. 

The subjective perception of a sound, determined by the composition of its overtones.

Technical Specifications: Sub-ballast mats.

Subjective perception of tonality, tone allowance. 

Within the scope of a noise reduction programme, the TOP principle (Technical, Organisational, Personal) describes the order of priority for noise reduction measures to be assessed in accordance with the…

A measurement system developed by Müller BBM Industry Solutions GmbH for measuring the sound field within a tyre torus. It is used to assess road conditions.

Detailed investigations of traffic noise: railway bridges, construction of new stations, track realignment, reactivation of railway lines, noise barrier heights, minimum distances and the length of noise barrier…

The Traffic Noise Protection Ordinance applies to the construction or substantial modification of public roads and railway lines. It governs the calculation and assessment of noise emitted by the operation of these…

Training is an essential part of the protection of health and safety at work. It informs employees about health and safety measures at the workplace. Training must be carried out regularly and must be practical and…

A light rail vehicle for local transport, which mainly operates on tracks running along roads.

A method for the experimental investigation of sound transmission paths (airborne sound, structure-borne sound, fluid-borne sound) in vehicles.

Conversion of the coordinates of objects between different coordinate systems.

The attenuation of a signal caused by an inserted component. Used for enclosing components where the sound is transmitted through different media (e.g. façade elements).

Auxiliary components for transferring interface dynamics. Particularly important for connections in which normal forces and friction parameters play a dominant role.

The Technical Rule for Operational Safety (TRBS) 1112, Part 1, deals with the identification of specific measures to protect workers, particularly during maintenance work in potentially explosive atmospheres or…

The Technical Rule for Operational Safety (TRBS) 1201 sets out in detail in particular the requirements of the Operational Safety Ordinance (BetrSichV) regarding the nature, scope and frequency of the necessary…

Identifying and assessing risks associated with work involving hazardous substances: inhalation exposure.

Asbestos – demolition, refurbishment or maintenance work.

Demolition, refurbishment and maintenance work involving old mineral wool.

The Technical Rules for Hazardous Substances (TRGS) Series 700 deal with protective measures against fire and explosion hazards posed by hazardous substances. They set out in detail the requirements of the Hazardous…

List of legally binding workplace exposure limits in Germany. 

Regulation on carcinogenic hazardous substances. 

The Technical Regulations relating to the Hazardous Substances Ordinance. 

The trigger values relating to the daily noise exposure level and the peak sound pressure level are specified in the Noise and Vibration Occupational Safety and Health Regulation. Failure to comply with these values…

Technical Regulations for Substances Hazardous to Water. 

This TSI sets out all the acoustic requirements relating to background noise and noise levels inside the driver’s cab for all mainline vehicles that can be operated on an interoperable (i.e. cross-border) basis. …

This TSI sets out, amongt other things, requirements for the speech intelligibility of acoustic announcements and the acoustic requirements for the signal tones of passenger compartment doors. These requirements…

This TSI sets out, among other things, the acoustic requirements for signal tones in the driver’s cab and for signal horns. These requirements apply to all mainline vehicles that can be used on an interoperable…

According to the most common definitions, ultrafine particles (UFP) or ultrafine dust refer to airborne particles with a diameter of between 1 and 100 nanometres (nm) (DIN 2006; ISO 2007; VDI 2009; EPA 2004). UFPs…

Pursuant to Section 2(15) of the Ordinance on Facilities for Handling Substances Hazardous to Water (AwSV), these are installations of which at least one part  is completely or partially embedded in the ground;…

In accordance with Annex 7 of the TA Luft, an odour emitted by an installation is classified as unambiguously pleasant if it is demonstrated, using the polarity profile method, that the odour from the installation…

The upper explosive limit (UEL) is the highest concentration of a flammable gas or vapour in the air at which an explosion is possible. Above this limit, the mixture is too rich to cause an explosion. The UEL is…

In an upper-class operating area, hazardous substances are present in quantities that reach or exceed the quantity thresholds specified in column 5 of the list of substances stated in Annex I to the Major Accidents…

The purpose of urban land-use planning is to prepare and guide the development or other uses of land within the municipality in accordance with the Building Code (BauGB). Key instruments of urban land-use planning…

Urban sound design focuses on the overall acoustic experience in urban environments. Building on the principles of conventional noise control, it aims to incorporate positive and desirable sound experiences into the…

Describes how easy and intuitive a device is to use.

Assessment of the usability of devices, programmes or apps by a trained panel.

The graphical user interface of a device.  

Noises generated when gases, vapours and liquids flow through control valves. Valve noise is mainly radiated via the connected pipework system. Owing to the large number of control valves in industrial plants and…

During brake tests or when braking, air escapes suddenly from the brake air system via the valves. This sudden release of air can cause very loud noise both inside and outside the vehicle.

When warm exhaust air rich in water vapour (for example, from a cooling tower, a drying plant or a chimney) is released, it may mix with cooler outside air, leading to condensation and thus the formation of water…

Classification of low-vibration installation sites for sensitive equipment. VC-0 lies approximately within the perceptibility threshold range. From VC-A onwards, the permissible amplitudes are halved for each…

This is a guideline that provides a self-assessment system based on a maturity model for occupational health and safety management within organisations (‘OH&S Leading Indicators’), with the aim of continuously…

This guideline sets out general rules to be observed when planning metrological investigations of air pollution outside buildings and vehicles. 

Noise from railway vehicles during the stabling phase. Contains proposals for noise limit values for railway vehicles during the stabling phase, as well as a description of the operating conditions to be taken into…

Noise from rail vehicles used in public transport (ÖPNV) in accordance with BOStrab. It includes, among other things, proposals for noise limit values for rail vehicles used in local transport (trams, underground…

Spatial objects represented in the form of points, lines or polygons, which may contain additional information. For example: .shp, .kml/.xml/.gml, .geojson, .qsi, .dwg/.dxf.

In rail vehicles, fans are used to cool drive systems and compressors, and for air conditioning the vehicle interior. These noise components are generally only relevant when the vehicle is at a standstill. …

The verification of combustion conditions in accordance with the 17th BImSchV involves checking compliance with the minimum combustion temperature, the minimum residence time and compliance with the mixing…

Vibration emissions are mechanical vibrations emanating from a vibration source which propagate through the ground or through structures and may affect neighbouring structures or people.

Calculation of the propagation of vibrations and their effects on buildings, people or equipment/machinery within buildings using theoretical models and/or based on vibration measurements.

Vibrations acting on a specific point.

Vibration measurements are used to record and evaluate vibrations in machinery, structures or the ground. They are used, among other things, in site assessments, building design, machinery installation,…

Vibration monitoring allows the vibrations affecting sensitive structures (e.g. IT equipment, production facilities, listed buildings) to be recorded and compared against specified limit values. The measurement…

A (heavy) concrete foundation mounted on elastic supports, designed as a vibration-reduction measure; its dynamic properties reduce vibration amplitudes across a broad frequency range.

Mechanical vibrations that may be perceived as disturbing, affect the operation of equipment or machinery, or have a potentially damaging effect on building structures.

Intentional or unintentional periodic movements of bodies (or components).

Unintended or intended periodic movements of bodies or components.

Vibrations at the workplace that are capable of causing harmful effects to the whole body or the hand-arm system of workers.

Video quality describes the overall perception of a video, which is influenced by factors such as resolution, frame rate, compression artefacts, sharpness, contrast, colour reproduction and noise levels. …

Describes how image quality changes when viewing the display from different angles.

Reference point for identifying structural properties at interfaces in up to 6 degrees of freedom.

The visual representation of data.

VOCs are volatile organic compounds. They can be analysed using GC-MS, for example.

Solvents found in many building and renovation materials, adhesives, paints and varnishes, cleaning products, components of petrol and heating oil, turpentine oil, fragrances and many others. …

Structural oscillations excited by periodic vortex shedding transverse to the direction of flow.

The term ‘waffle slab’ or ‘wafer slab’ refers to a special reinforced concrete floor slab featuring grid-like beams or cylindrical recesses. Owing to its high flexural stiffness and favourable dynamic properties, it…

A procedure for classifying waste according to the relevant criteria of the Waste List (AVV) in order to correctly assess waste based on its hazardous characteristics and potential risks.

An industrial facility used to recover or dispose of waste through incineration (thermal treatment) in order to reduce waste volumes, generate energy and minimise residual pollutants.

Water as an object of protection includes surface waters (rivers, lakes, springs) and groundwater. In addition, drinking water and mineral spring protection areas, as well as floodplains, areas at risk of flooding…

European directive governing water policy in the EU, with the aim of achieving sustainable and environmentally sound water use. Key instruments are the prohibition of deterioration and the requirement for…

A classification system that describes the risk posed to water bodies by certain substances or mixtures. It indicates how hazardous a substance is to water bodies and how a spill might affect them. …

An Act governing sustainable water management with a view to maintaining/improving water quality and to preserving/protecting natural water bodies.

Sound transmitted through water. Its propagation characteristics differ significantly from those in air and play an important role in the study of marine environmental impacts, shipping and underwater…

The propagation of waves in solids or fluids (liquid or gaseous) relative to a source.

Measurement of inhalation exposure: welding fumes, metals, chromium(VI) compounds, ozone, nitrogen oxides.

When the wheel flange comes into contact with the rail while travelling along a curved section of track, high-frequency noises are produced, which can best be described as hissing sounds.

Small irregularities on the wheel tread which cause the wheel and rail to vibrate. The rougher the wheel tread, the louder the rolling noise.

Household appliances such as fridges, washing machines and dishwashers. 

Whole-body vibrations are mechanical vibrations in the frequency range between 0.1 Hz and 80 Hz which, when transmitted to the whole body, pose or may pose a risk to the health and safety of workers. …

A technology for wireless data transmission over short distances.  

A wind turbine converts the kinetic energy of the wind into electrical energy.

Wood preservatives such as PCP, lindane and DDT are among the active ingredients used in fungicides and insecticides.

Investigation and assessment of hazards associated with activities involving hazardous substances in the air in work areas in accordance with Section 7 (10) of the German Hazardous Substances Ordinance (GefStoffV),…

Annoying noise that affects a person or a specific location during working hours.

Calculation of the expected sound pressure levels at the workplace. The assessment is usually carried out during the planning phase, i.e. before a project is implemented, and is based on technical data, the planned…

This regulation serves to ensure the safety and health protection of employees when setting up and operating workplaces. With regard to noise at the workplace, this regulation only requires in very general terms…

Investigation of lighting conditions to assess risks to employees due to inadequate lighting levels or disruptive glare in existing buildings and in the planning process.

An area in which a hazardous explosive atmosphere consisting of a mixture of air and flammable gases, vapours or mists is present continuously, for long periods or frequently.

An area in which, during normal operation, a hazardous explosive atmosphere consisting of a mixture of air and flammable gases, vapours or mists may occasionally form.

An area in which, during normal operation, a hazardous explosive atmosphere consisting of a mixture of air and flammable gases, vapours or mists does not normally occur, and if it does, then only rarely and for a…

An area in which a hazardous explosive atmosphere in the form of a cloud of combustible dust suspended in the air is present continuously, for long periods or frequently. 

An area in which, during normal operation, a potentially hazardous explosive atmosphere in the form of a cloud of combustible dust suspended in the air may occasionally form.

An area in which, during normal operation, a hazardous explosive atmosphere in the form of a cloud of flammable dust suspended in the air does not normally occur, and if it does, then only rarely and for a short…