ISO 1996-2:2007 describes how sound pressure levels can be determined by direct measurement, by extrapolation of measurement results by means of calculation, or exclusively by calculation, intended as a basis for assessing environmental noise. Recommendations are given regarding preferable conditions for measurement or calculation to be applied in cases where other regulations do not apply.

ISO 1996-2:2007 can be used to measure with any frequency weighting or in any frequency band. Guidance is given to evaluate the uncertainty of the result of a noise assessment.