Every day we hear a variety of sounds. Sounds that are too loud or loud sounds over a long time, can damage your hearing.
The loudness of sounds is measured in decibels (dB). Learn the decibel levels for different sounds and know which noises can cause damage to your hearing.
Protect your ears when you are involved in a loud activity.
How loud is too loud?
| Decibel Level | Source |
|---|---|
| 10 dB | Normal breathing |
| 20 dB | Rustling leaves, mosquito |
| 30 dB | Whisper |
| 40 dB | Stream, refrigerator humming |
| 50-60 dB | Quiet office |
| 50-65 dB | Normal conversation |
| 60-65 dB | Laughter |
| 70 dB | Vacuum cleaner, hair dryer |
| 75 dB | Dishwasher |
| 78 dB | Washing machine |
| 80 dB | Garbage disposal, city traffic noise |
Prolonged exposure to any noise above 90 dB can cause gradual hearing loss
| Decibel Level | Source |
|---|---|
| 84 dB | Diesel truck |
| 70-90 dB | Recreational vehicle |
| 88 dB | Subway, motorcycle |
| 85-90 dB | Lawnmower |
| 100 dB | Train, garbage truck |
| 97 dB | Newspaper press |
| 98 dB | Farm tractor |
Regular exposure of more than 1 minute risks permanent hearing loss.
| Decibel Level | Source |
|---|---|
| 103 dB | Jet flyover at 100 feet |
| 105 dB | Snowmobile |
| 110 dB | Jackhammer, power saw, symphony orchestra |
| 120 dB | Thunderclap, discotheque/boom box |
| 110-125 dB | Stereo |
| 110-140 dB | Rock concerts |
| 130 dB | Jet takeoff, shotgun firing |
| 145 dB | Boom cars |