Predicting Community Response to Blast Noise

A preliminary method is given to predict annoyance levels in the environs of a blasting area. The means are given to scale X pounds of TNT to 1 lb of TNT; buried charges and above ground detonations are also considered. Various ways to predict probable blast overpressure and spectrum as a function of distance on days exhibiting adverse weather conditions are considered. The annoyance of man by blast noise is predicted using the composite noise rating (CNR) and, for this calculation, the impulsive noise startle correction factor suggested by Kryter is added to the perceived noise level. Blast noise case histories are considered for verification of the prediction method, and the prediction method is suitable for computer computation of “equal annoyance” contours.