Abstract
Sound is one of the most important factors that shape our environment. In order to analyze it, sound pressure level has conventionally been used. However, the absolute magnitude of sound is not the only factor that affects the human impression of sound and so this parameter may not play a principal role in the sound quality of a target space. Extensive research was undertaken on the platforms of railway stations where there are various sounds familiar to everyday life and public places. First, physical quantities such as sound level, illuminance, hue, chroma, value, wind velocity, temperature, and humidity were measured. Then the correlation between these parameters and their values was examined. It was found that the human impression of sound was strongly influenced not only by the auditory sense, but also by the visual task. It is proposed therefore that a comprehensive evaluation of the acoustical environment should include an assessment of both physical and psychological parameters.
