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Health InfoHearing, Ear Infections, and DeafnessHow Loud Is Too Loud? Bookmark
How Loud Is Too Loud? Bookmark
| How Loud is too Loud? |
| Decibels |
Sound Source |
|
150
|
Firecracker |
|
120
|
Ambulance siren |
|
110
|
Chain saw, Rock concert |
|
105
|
Personal stereo system at maximum level |
|
100
|
Wood shop, Snowmobile |
|
95
|
Motorcycle |
|
90
|
Power mower |
|
85
|
Heavy city traffic |
|
60
|
Normal conversation |
|
40
|
Refrigerator humming |
|
30
|
Whispered voice |
|
0
|
Threshold of normal hearing |
Download the "How loud is too loud?" Bookmark (PDF; get Adobe Reader)
Protect Your Ears
Know which noises can cause damage. Wear ear plugs when you are involved in a loud activity.
-
110 Decibels
Regular exposure of more than 1 minute risks permanent hearing loss.
-
100 Decibels
No more than 15 minutes of unprotected exposure recommended.
-
85 Decibels
Prolonged exposure to any noise at or above 85 decibels can cause gradual hearing loss.
Get sound advice.
For more information, contact the NIDCD Information Clearinghouse.
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