Standard definitions for sound levels in the ocean

Measurements and calculations in underwater and bio-acoustics should use for the units of the primary reference quantities the International System of Units commonly referred to as SI metric. Relative levels are important quantities provided the reference is clearly specified and the modifier to the term level is consistent with the units of the reference quantity. In particular it is necessary to distinguish between pressure, power, and energy references. These reference quantities should have clearly defined SI-metric (mks) units. The absolute value of the power or intensity should be parenthetically included