The standard presents a series of formulas that calculate the POA as a function of a sound exposure level of a single or series of noise events. In order to evaluate this impact, an analysis was performed using CADNAA acoustical modeling software, in an innovative manner, to evaluate the probability of awakening (POA) as a result of idle‐related horn usage based on ANSI/ASAS‐12.9‐2008/Part 6, a standard for estimating awakenings. The primary impact on the community due to this type of horn use is sleep disturbance. Trains on an adjacent track overtaking an idling locomotive regularly blow their horn as they approach and pass an idling train. One of the noise sources evaluated was idle‐related horn usage, at locations other than grade crossings. The Rutgers University Noise Technical Assistance Center conducted a long‐term acoustical study to assess the noise exposure of residents in Teaneck, NJ to noise associated with idling freight trains.