scope:

AIM

This document specified the acoustical environment in NATO surface ships in terms of Maximum Noise Levels (MNL), Noise Rating Curves (NRC), and Speech Interference Levels (SIL). An adequate acoustical environment has to be maintained in order to avoid:

- loss of hearing and other damages to the health of personnel;

- interference with communications in operational and working spaces;

- reduction of efficiency of the crew;

- interference with the crew's recreation and sleep in accommodation spaces.

To achieve these objectives measures for noise abatement have to be taken in the design and operation of ships which meet the criteria contained within.