Decibel Levels Chart
This decibel levels chart lists typical sound levels for everyday sources and how long you can be exposed before risking hearing damage. Values are typical ranges; real levels depend on distance and environment.
Common sound levels
| Sound | Typical level |
|---|---|
| Breathing, rustling leaves | 10–20 dB |
| Whisper, quiet library | 30 dB |
| Quiet office, fridge hum | 40–50 dB |
| Normal conversation | 60 dB |
| Busy traffic, vacuum cleaner | 70–80 dB |
| Hair dryer, blender | 80–90 dB |
| Motorcycle, power tools | 95–100 dB |
| Concert, nightclub | 100–110 dB |
| Sirens up close | 110–120 dB |
| Fireworks, gunshot at close range | 140 dB+ |
Safe exposure times
The widely used NIOSH recommendation is 85 dBA for 8 hours, with the safe time halving for every 3 dB increase:
| Level | Recommended maximum daily exposure |
|---|---|
| 85 dBA | 8 hours |
| 88 dBA | 4 hours |
| 91 dBA | 2 hours |
| 94 dBA | 1 hour |
| 97 dBA | 30 minutes |
| 100 dBA | 15 minutes |
| 103 dBA | 7.5 minutes |
| 106 dBA | under 4 minutes |
Some workplace regulations use a 90 dBA, 5 dB rule; NIOSH is more protective.
What dB, dBA and dBC mean
Decibels are logarithmic: +10 dB is ten times the sound power and sounds about twice as loud. dBA weights the measurement like human hearing at moderate levels; dBC includes more bass. Read decibels explained.
Measure your own environment
The decibel meter estimates level from your phone or laptop microphone. Phone mics are not calibrated, so treat readings as estimates, and see safe noise levels.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q.How loud is 60 dB?
About a normal conversation.
Q.Is 85 dB safe?
For up to about 8 hours a day under NIOSH guidance.