Introduces a series of six standards specifying various methods for determining the sound power levels of machines and equipment. When applying these six standards to sound measurements on specific machines, it is necessary to decide which one or more of these standards is most appropriate for the required precision for the particular class of machine or equipment and for the purpose of the test. It is also necessary to decide on specific details for mounting and operating the machine to be tested within the general principles stated in the standards. Guidelines for making these decisions are provided in this standard.