What is the maximum sound pressure level for audible alarm notification appliances at the minimum hearing distance?

The maximum sound pressure level for audible alarm notification appliances at the minimum hearing distance is set at 110 dBA to ensure effective notification while minimizing potential hearing damage. This threshold is established based on standards that balance the need for alarms to be heard distinctly in emergency situations against the risks associated with high decibel levels.

Setting the maximum at 110 dBA allows for alarms to be loud enough to alert individuals in various environmental conditions while adhering to safety guidelines that prevent prolonged exposure to excessively loud sounds, which can lead to hearing loss or discomfort.

In many building codes and safety regulations, this standard is implemented to ensure that all occupants can hear the alarm clearly without the noise reaching a level that could be harmful. This decision reflects a consideration for both safety and health, providing an effective means of alerting individuals to emergencies in commercial buildings without risking auditory harm.