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Abstract
Goujard, B., Sakout, A. Valeau, V. "Acoustic comfort on board
ships:
An evaluation based on a questionnaire," Applied Acoustics, 2005, 66:9,
1063-1073
An initial attempt has been
made to understand factors
that
determine acoustic comfort for cruise ship passengers. Although no
literature directly pertinent to the question could be found, use of
elements from studies on railways coaches in a questionnaire
administered to shipbuilder and sub-contractor professionals on board
during sea trials was judged a relevant initial approach. The
questionnaire, consisting of closed questions followed by open
questions, was drawn up to assess acoustic comfort in relation to
others factors (such as temperature or light) and to identify the main
conditions causing acoustic discomfort. During two sea trials 100
questionnaires were completed. Acoustics, then temperature, are pointed
out as the first two comfort criteria and the priorities for
improvement. Creaking and squeaking noises, noise of engines and
whistles from HVAC are the main reported causes of annoyance. The
results of the investigation demonstrate the prominent role of
acoustics in respect of ship-board comfort.
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