Estimating noise levels in occupied spaces from air terminal devices has always been difficult due to the many variables that affect the resultant sound levels, This is further complicated by the many different ways these variables are described and presented by different manufacturers.

Industry Standard 885 has been jointly developed by the ADC and the ARI to establish uniform industry procedures for estimating sound pressure levels in occupied spaces served by air terminal devices. Industry Standard 885 acoustical calculation procedures provide an easily understood method for significantly improving the reliability of predicting NC or RC levels in occupied spaces over the more simplified models used in the past.

This paper presents an overview of the background, organization, philosophy, and intended uses of Industry Standard 885.