ASTM E1662-95a(2018)
(Classification)Standard Classification for Serviceability of an Office Facility for Sound and Visual Environment
Standard Classification for Serviceability of an Office Facility for Sound and Visual Environment
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Each Facility Rating Scale (see Figs. 1-6) in this classification provides a means to estimate the level of serviceability of a building or facility for one topic of serviceability and to compare that level against the level of any other building or facility.
4.2 This classification can be used for comparing how well different buildings or facilities meet a particular requirement for serviceability. It is applicable despite differences such as location, structure, mechanical systems, age, and building shape.
4.3 This classification can be used to estimate the amount of variance of serviceability from target or from requirement, for a single office facility, or within a group of office facilities.
4.4 This classification can be used to estimate the following:
4.4.1 Serviceability of an existing facility for uses other than its present use.
4.4.2 Serviceability (potential) of a facility that has been planned but not yet built.
4.4.3 Serviceability (potential) of a facility for which a remodeling has been planned.
4.5 Use of this classification does not result in building evaluation or diagnosis. Building evaluation or diagnosis generally requires a special expertise in building engineering or technology, and the use of instruments, tools, or measurements.
4.6 This classification applies only to facilities that are building constructions, or parts thereof. (While this classification may be useful in rating the serviceability of facilities that are not building constructions, such facilities are outside the scope of this classification.)
4.7 This classification is not intended for, and is not suitable for, use for regulatory purposes, nor for fire hazard assessment nor for fire risk assessment.
SCOPE
1.1 This classification covers pairs of scales for classifying an aspect of the serviceability of an office facility, that is, the capability of an office facility to meet certain possible requirements for suitable sound and visual conditions.
1.2 Within that aspect of serviceability, each pair of scales, shown in Figs. 1-6, are for classifying one topic of serviceability. Each paragraph in an Occupant Requirement Scale (see Figs. 1-6) summarizes one level of serviceability on that topic, which occupants might require. The matching entry in the Facility Rating Scale (see Figs. 1-6) is a translation of the requirement into a description of certain features of a facility which, taken in combination, indicate that the facility is likely to meet that level of required serviceability.
FIG. 1 Scale A.3.1 for Privacy and Speech Intelligibility
FIG. 1 Scale A.3.1 for Privacy and Speech Intelligibility (continued)
FIG. 2 Scale A.3.2 for Distraction and Disturbance
FIG. 2 Scale A.3.2 for Distraction and Disturbance (continued)
FIG. 3 Scale A.3.3 for Vibration
FIG. 4 Scale A.3.4 for Lighting and Glare
FIG. 4 Scale A.3.4 for Lighting and Glare (continued)
FIG. 5 Scale A.3.5 for Adjustment of Lighting by Occupants
FIG. 5 Scale A.3.5 for Adjustment of Lighting by Occupants (continued)
FIG. 6 Scale A.3.6 for Distant and Outside Views
1.3 The entries in the Facility Rating Scale (see Figs. 1-6) are indicative and not comprehensive. They are for quick scanning to estimate approximately, quickly, and economically, how well an office facility is likely to meet the needs of one or another type of occupant group over time. The entries are not for measuring, knowing, or evaluating how an office facility is performing.
1.4 This classification can be used to estimate the level of serviceability of an existing facility. It can also be used to estimate the serviceability of a facility that has been planned but not yet built, such as one for which single-line drawings and outline specifications have been prepared.
1.5 This classification indicates what would cause a facility to be rated at a certain level of serviceability but does not state how to condu...
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 28-Feb-2018
- Technical Committee
- E06 - Performance of Buildings
- Drafting Committee
- E06.25 - Whole Buildings and Facilities
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2014
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2013
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2012
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2006
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2005
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2005
- Effective Date
- 28-Jul-2000
- Effective Date
- 10-Oct-1999
- Effective Date
- 10-Oct-1999
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2018
Overview
ASTM E1662-95a(2018) - Standard Classification for Serviceability of an Office Facility for Sound and Visual Environment provides a systematic approach for classifying and comparing the capability of office facilities to meet specific sound and visual environment requirements. Developed by ASTM International, this standard outlines flexible rating scales that allow stakeholders to estimate the serviceability of both existing and planned office buildings, regardless of differences in age, structure, location, or building systems.
Its primary purpose is to help users quickly determine how well an office facility supports occupant needs such as privacy, speech intelligibility, lighting, and visual comfort, making it a valuable tool for facility managers, architects, and planners.
Key Topics
This standard emphasizes the importance of assessing serviceability in relation to specific occupant needs in office environments. The classification uses pairs of scales for evaluating the following aspects:
- Privacy and Speech Intelligibility: Evaluates how well spaces absorb, block, or mask sound to enable private conversations and clear communication.
- Distraction and Disturbance: Considers measures to minimize unwanted noise and interruptions, contributing to occupant concentration.
- Vibration: Assesses the building’s ability to limit vibrations that may disturb occupants or sensitive equipment.
- Lighting and Glare: Examines provision of suitable lighting levels and strategies for minimizing discomfort due to glare.
- Adjustment of Lighting by Occupants: Looks at personalization options for lighting to suit individual and task needs.
- Distant and Outside Views: Recognizes the value of visual access to outdoor spaces for occupant comfort and well-being.
Each pair of scales-an Occupant Requirement Scale and a Facility Rating Scale-helps users estimate and compare the serviceability levels across topics without extensive measurement or technical evaluation.
Applications
ASTM E1662-95a(2018) is designed for practical use in several scenarios:
- Comparative Assessment: Facility professionals can compare the serviceability of different office buildings, even if they vary in type, size, or age.
- Design and Planning: The standard aids architects and planners in evaluating whether a proposed design is likely to meet target needs for visual and acoustic comfort.
- Remodeling and Repurposing: It helps stakeholders estimate how well an existing facility might serve new or alternative uses.
- Portfolio Analysis: Building managers can use the classification to review multiple properties for strengths and gaps in serviceability, informing prioritization of improvements.
- Quick Screening: The indicative scales allow for efficient and economic assessment, supporting decision-making without the need for detailed technical diagnostics.
It is important to note that this standard is not intended for regulatory compliance, fire hazard assessment, or detailed building diagnostics, which require specialized expertise and tools.
Related Standards
Professionals utilizing ASTM E1662-95a(2018) may also reference these related standards for a comprehensive approach to building serviceability:
- ASTM E631: Terminology of Building Constructions - provides key definitions.
- ASTM E1334: Practice for Rating the Serviceability of a Building or Building-Related Facility (Withdrawn 2013) - complements E1662 for in-depth rating practices.
- ASTM E1679: Practice for Setting the Requirements for Serviceability of a Building or Building-Related Facility, and Determining What Serviceability is Provided or Proposed.
- ISO 6240: International Standard, Performance Standards in Building-Contents and Presentation.
These standards, in combination with ASTM E1662, support a structured, internationally recognized methodology for evaluating and managing office facility environments.
Keywords: ASTM E1662, office facility serviceability, sound environment, visual environment, privacy, lighting, building standards, facility rating, office design evaluation, workplace comfort, acoustical performance, glare control.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM E1662-95a(2018) is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Classification for Serviceability of an Office Facility for Sound and Visual Environment". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 Each Facility Rating Scale (see Figs. 1-6) in this classification provides a means to estimate the level of serviceability of a building or facility for one topic of serviceability and to compare that level against the level of any other building or facility. 4.2 This classification can be used for comparing how well different buildings or facilities meet a particular requirement for serviceability. It is applicable despite differences such as location, structure, mechanical systems, age, and building shape. 4.3 This classification can be used to estimate the amount of variance of serviceability from target or from requirement, for a single office facility, or within a group of office facilities. 4.4 This classification can be used to estimate the following: 4.4.1 Serviceability of an existing facility for uses other than its present use. 4.4.2 Serviceability (potential) of a facility that has been planned but not yet built. 4.4.3 Serviceability (potential) of a facility for which a remodeling has been planned. 4.5 Use of this classification does not result in building evaluation or diagnosis. Building evaluation or diagnosis generally requires a special expertise in building engineering or technology, and the use of instruments, tools, or measurements. 4.6 This classification applies only to facilities that are building constructions, or parts thereof. (While this classification may be useful in rating the serviceability of facilities that are not building constructions, such facilities are outside the scope of this classification.) 4.7 This classification is not intended for, and is not suitable for, use for regulatory purposes, nor for fire hazard assessment nor for fire risk assessment. SCOPE 1.1 This classification covers pairs of scales for classifying an aspect of the serviceability of an office facility, that is, the capability of an office facility to meet certain possible requirements for suitable sound and visual conditions. 1.2 Within that aspect of serviceability, each pair of scales, shown in Figs. 1-6, are for classifying one topic of serviceability. Each paragraph in an Occupant Requirement Scale (see Figs. 1-6) summarizes one level of serviceability on that topic, which occupants might require. The matching entry in the Facility Rating Scale (see Figs. 1-6) is a translation of the requirement into a description of certain features of a facility which, taken in combination, indicate that the facility is likely to meet that level of required serviceability. FIG. 1 Scale A.3.1 for Privacy and Speech Intelligibility FIG. 1 Scale A.3.1 for Privacy and Speech Intelligibility (continued) FIG. 2 Scale A.3.2 for Distraction and Disturbance FIG. 2 Scale A.3.2 for Distraction and Disturbance (continued) FIG. 3 Scale A.3.3 for Vibration FIG. 4 Scale A.3.4 for Lighting and Glare FIG. 4 Scale A.3.4 for Lighting and Glare (continued) FIG. 5 Scale A.3.5 for Adjustment of Lighting by Occupants FIG. 5 Scale A.3.5 for Adjustment of Lighting by Occupants (continued) FIG. 6 Scale A.3.6 for Distant and Outside Views 1.3 The entries in the Facility Rating Scale (see Figs. 1-6) are indicative and not comprehensive. They are for quick scanning to estimate approximately, quickly, and economically, how well an office facility is likely to meet the needs of one or another type of occupant group over time. The entries are not for measuring, knowing, or evaluating how an office facility is performing. 1.4 This classification can be used to estimate the level of serviceability of an existing facility. It can also be used to estimate the serviceability of a facility that has been planned but not yet built, such as one for which single-line drawings and outline specifications have been prepared. 1.5 This classification indicates what would cause a facility to be rated at a certain level of serviceability but does not state how to condu...
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 Each Facility Rating Scale (see Figs. 1-6) in this classification provides a means to estimate the level of serviceability of a building or facility for one topic of serviceability and to compare that level against the level of any other building or facility. 4.2 This classification can be used for comparing how well different buildings or facilities meet a particular requirement for serviceability. It is applicable despite differences such as location, structure, mechanical systems, age, and building shape. 4.3 This classification can be used to estimate the amount of variance of serviceability from target or from requirement, for a single office facility, or within a group of office facilities. 4.4 This classification can be used to estimate the following: 4.4.1 Serviceability of an existing facility for uses other than its present use. 4.4.2 Serviceability (potential) of a facility that has been planned but not yet built. 4.4.3 Serviceability (potential) of a facility for which a remodeling has been planned. 4.5 Use of this classification does not result in building evaluation or diagnosis. Building evaluation or diagnosis generally requires a special expertise in building engineering or technology, and the use of instruments, tools, or measurements. 4.6 This classification applies only to facilities that are building constructions, or parts thereof. (While this classification may be useful in rating the serviceability of facilities that are not building constructions, such facilities are outside the scope of this classification.) 4.7 This classification is not intended for, and is not suitable for, use for regulatory purposes, nor for fire hazard assessment nor for fire risk assessment. SCOPE 1.1 This classification covers pairs of scales for classifying an aspect of the serviceability of an office facility, that is, the capability of an office facility to meet certain possible requirements for suitable sound and visual conditions. 1.2 Within that aspect of serviceability, each pair of scales, shown in Figs. 1-6, are for classifying one topic of serviceability. Each paragraph in an Occupant Requirement Scale (see Figs. 1-6) summarizes one level of serviceability on that topic, which occupants might require. The matching entry in the Facility Rating Scale (see Figs. 1-6) is a translation of the requirement into a description of certain features of a facility which, taken in combination, indicate that the facility is likely to meet that level of required serviceability. FIG. 1 Scale A.3.1 for Privacy and Speech Intelligibility FIG. 1 Scale A.3.1 for Privacy and Speech Intelligibility (continued) FIG. 2 Scale A.3.2 for Distraction and Disturbance FIG. 2 Scale A.3.2 for Distraction and Disturbance (continued) FIG. 3 Scale A.3.3 for Vibration FIG. 4 Scale A.3.4 for Lighting and Glare FIG. 4 Scale A.3.4 for Lighting and Glare (continued) FIG. 5 Scale A.3.5 for Adjustment of Lighting by Occupants FIG. 5 Scale A.3.5 for Adjustment of Lighting by Occupants (continued) FIG. 6 Scale A.3.6 for Distant and Outside Views 1.3 The entries in the Facility Rating Scale (see Figs. 1-6) are indicative and not comprehensive. They are for quick scanning to estimate approximately, quickly, and economically, how well an office facility is likely to meet the needs of one or another type of occupant group over time. The entries are not for measuring, knowing, or evaluating how an office facility is performing. 1.4 This classification can be used to estimate the level of serviceability of an existing facility. It can also be used to estimate the serviceability of a facility that has been planned but not yet built, such as one for which single-line drawings and outline specifications have been prepared. 1.5 This classification indicates what would cause a facility to be rated at a certain level of serviceability but does not state how to condu...
ASTM E1662-95a(2018) is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 35.260 - Office machines. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM E1662-95a(2018) has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM E1662-95a(2012), ASTM E631-15, ASTM E631-14, ASTM E1679-13, ASTM E1679-95(2012), ASTM E631-06, ASTM E1679-95(2005), ASTM E1334-95(2005), ASTM E631-93a(1998)e1, ASTM E1679-95(1999), ASTM E1334-95(1999), ASTM E1663-22, ASTM E1765-16(2023), ASTM E1664-19. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM E1662-95a(2018) is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: E1662 −95a (Reapproved 2018)
Standard Classification for
Serviceability of an Office Facility for Sound and Visual
1,2
Environment
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E1662; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
1.1 This classification covers pairs of scales for classifying
standard.
an aspect of the serviceability of an office facility, that is, the
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
capability of an office facility to meet certain possible require-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ments for suitable sound and visual conditions.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
1.2 Within that aspect of serviceability, each pair of scales,
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
shown in Figs. 1-6, are for classifying one topic of serviceabil-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
ity. Each paragraph in an Occupant Requirement Scale (see
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Figs. 1-6) summarizes one level of serviceability on that topic,
which occupants might require. The matching entry in the
2. Referenced Documents
Facility Rating Scale (see Figs. 1-6) is a translation of the
2.1 ASTM Standards:
requirement into a description of certain features of a facility
E631 Terminology of Building Constructions
which, taken in combination, indicate that the facility is likely
E1334 Practice for Rating the Serviceability of a Building or
to meet that level of required serviceability.
Building-Related Facility (Withdrawn 2013)
1.3 The entries in the Facility Rating Scale (see Figs. 1-6)
E1679 Practice for Setting the Requirements for the Service-
are indicative and not comprehensive. They are for quick
ability of a Building or Building-Related Facility, and for
scanningtoestimateapproximately,quickly,andeconomically,
Determining What Serviceability is Provided or Proposed
how well an office facility is likely to meet the needs of one or
2.2 ISO Standard:
another type of occupant group over time. The entries are not
ISO 6240 International Standard, Performance Standards in
for measuring, knowing, or evaluating how an office facility is
Building—Contents and Presentation
performing.
1.4 This classification can be used to estimate the level of
3. Terminology
serviceability of an existing facility. It can also be used to
3.1 Definitions:
estimate the serviceability of a facility that has been planned
3.1.1 facility—a physical setting used to serve a specific
but not yet built, such as one for which single-line drawings
purpose. E631
and outline specifications have been prepared.
3.1.1.1 Discussion—A facility may be within a building, a
1.5 This classification indicates what would cause a facility
whole building, or a building with its site and surrounding
to be rated at a certain level of serviceability but does not state
environment; or it may be a construction that is not a building.
how to conduct a serviceability rating nor how to assign a
The term encompasses both the physical object and its use.
serviceability score. That information is found in Practice
3.1.2 facility serviceability—the capability of a facility to
E1334. The scales in this classification are complimentary to
perform the function(s) for which it is designed, used, or
and compatible with Practice E1334. Each requires the other.
required to be used. E631
This classification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E06 on
Performance of Buildings and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E06.25
on Whole Buildings and Facilities. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved March 1, 2018. Published March 2018. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1995. Last previous edition approved in 2012 as E1662 – 95a (2012). Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
DOI: 10.1520/E1662-95AR18. the ASTM website.
2 4
Portions of this document are based on material originally prepared by the The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
International Centre for Facilities (ICF) and © 1993 by ICF and Minister of Public www.astm.org.
Works and Government Services Canada. Their cooperation in the development of Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
this standard is acknowledged. 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E1662 − 95a (2018)
FIG. 1 Scale A.3.1 for Privacy and Speech Intelligibility
E1662 − 95a (2018)
FIG. 1 Scale A.3.
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