> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://support.meetuma.ai/uma-knowledgebase/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://support.meetuma.ai/uma-knowledgebase/data-and-reporting/analytics-pro/dashboard/ambient-noise-and-sound-1.md).

# Ambient Noise and Sound

### Overview

The Ambient Noise and Sound Level dashboard tracks acoustic conditions across the workplace. It captures both **ambient noise** (background level, useful for baseline workplace acoustics) and **sound level** (peak event-driven noise), each measured in decibels.

Use this dashboard to:

* Identify noise hotspots and quiet zones
* Inform open-plan and neighbourhood-design decisions
* Validate the acoustic performance of meeting rooms and breakout spaces
* Provide objective data to support flexible-working and focus-area policies

***

### Reference Bands

| Band          | Range    | Typical Environment                           |
| ------------- | -------- | --------------------------------------------- |
| 🟢 Quiet      | < 50 dB  | Library, focus zone                           |
| 🟡 Active     | 50–65 dB | Open office hum, normal conversation          |
| 🟠 Loud       | 65–75 dB | Busy café, multiple overlapping conversations |
| 🔴 Disruptive | > 75 dB  | Focus impossible, fatigue rises rapidly       |

***

### Dashboard Structure

The dashboard is organised into four tabs:

1. **Monitoring**
2. **Data**
3. **Map**
4. **Floor Heatmap**

A metric switcher toggles every chart between **Ambient Noise** and **Sound Level**.

***

### Tab 1 — Monitoring

#### Ambient Noise Trend

*Line chart with Daily / Weekly granularity tabs.*

Ambient noise level (dB) over time. Background bands mark the Quiet / Active / Loud / Disruptive zones.

*Use it to:* track whether the workplace is becoming louder over time — a common pattern as desk density rises.

#### Average Ambient Noise by Resource

*Horizontal bar chart, ranked.*

Resources ranked by ambient noise, colour-coded by band.

*Use it to:* identify the loudest neighbourhoods and the quietest, supporting the assignment of focus and collaboration zones.

#### Average Ambient Noise by Weekday

*Bar chart.*

Noise averages by day of the week.

#### Sound Level Trend

*Line chart with Daily / Weekly granularity tabs.*

Peak sound level (dB) over time, with reference threshold lines.

*Use it to:* detect transient noise events such as construction, equipment startup, or alarms.

#### Average Sound Level by Resource

*Horizontal bar chart, ranked.*

Resources ranked by average peak sound level.

#### Average Sound Level by Weekday

*Bar chart.*

Peak-noise averages by day of the week.

***

### Tab 2 — Data

#### Noise Data Table

*Sortable data grid.*

Minimum, maximum, and average ambient noise (dB) per resource.

#### Sound Data Table

*Sortable data grid.*

Minimum, maximum, and average sound level (dB) per resource.

Both tables support CSV, JSON, and PDF export.

***

### Tab 3 — Map

#### Sensor Map View

*Interactive geographic map.*

Buildings plotted on a world map, colour-coded by acoustic status.

***

### Tab 4 — Floor Heatmap

#### Acoustic Floor Heatmap

*Colour-coded overlay on an interactive 2D floor plan.*

Each monitored resource appears as a heat point coloured by its current acoustic band.

*Use it to:* visualise where in the floor plan noise concentrates, supporting decisions on screening, partitioning, and zoning.

***

### Filters & Controls

* Building, Floor, Resource, Resource Type
* Date range with presets and custom ranges
* Granularity tabs on trend charts
* Metric switcher: Ambient Noise / Sound Level

***

### Tips

* Cross-reference high noise readings against the Occupancy dashboard. Persistent noise during low-occupancy periods often indicates a faulty sensor or persistent equipment hum.
* Use the Sound Level chart to investigate complaints about specific events — peaks are usually clearly visible.