Noise and Sound Level Examples
Test |
Probable noise level |
A risk assessment will be needed if the noise is like this for more than: |
|---|---|---|
The noise is intrusive but normal conversation is possible |
80 dB |
6 hours |
You have to shout to talk to someone 2m away |
85 dB |
2 hours |
You have to shout to talk to someone 1m away |
90 dB |
45 minutes |
Table 1: Noise Level Guide
Common Sounds |
Noise Levels (dB) |
Effect |
|---|---|---|
Jet engine (near) |
140 |
|
Shotgun firing, Jet takeoff (100 - 200 ft) |
130 |
Threshold of pain |
Thunderclap (near), Night club |
120 |
Threshold of sensation |
Power saw, Pneumatic drill, Rock music band |
110 |
Regular exposure of more than 1 min risks permanent hearing loss |
Garbage truck |
100 |
No more than 15 min unprotected exposure recommended |
Subway, Motorcycle, Lawnmower |
90 |
Very annoying |
Electric razor, Many industrial workplaces |
85 |
Level at which hearing damage begins (8 hours) |
Average city traffic noise, Garbage disposal |
80 |
Annoying. Interferes with conversation |
Vacuum cleaner, Hair dryer, Inside a car |
70 |
Intrusive. Interferes with telephone conversation |
Normal conversation |
60 |
|
Quiet office, Air conditioner |
50 |
Comfortable |
Whisper |
30 |
Very quiet |
Normal breathing |
10 |
Just audible |
|
0 |
Threshold of normal hearing (1000 - 4000 Hz) |
Table 2: Sound Levels and Human Response
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