How many decibels before ear damage

Sounds of less than 75 decibels, even after a lengthy exposure, are unlikely to cause hearing loss. However extended or repeated exposure to sounds at or above 85 decibels approximately the level of a vacuum cleaner can cause hearing loss. The table below, the graphic and the poster to the side give examples of various everyday sounds and their typical loudness levels in decibels. The table shows the length of time we can safely be exposed to these sounds before permanent damage is likely to occur.

Most governments regulate noise exposure for safety reasons and the most commonly used maximum acceptable noise exposure level is 85 decibels over eight hours a typical working day. Want to know more about loud sounds? Jackhammer, Helicopter Risk of hearing damage in 1 hour. Chain Saw, Stereo Headphone Risk of hearing damage in 2 hours. Motorcycle, Power Saw Risk of hearing damage in 4 hours. Lawnmower, Truck Traffic Risk of hearing damage in 8 hours.

You might also like:. How can I stop this ringing in my ears? Learn more. Noise levels Noise Average decibels dB Leaves rustling, soft music, whisper 30 Average home noise 40 Normal conversation, background music 60 Office noise, inside car at 60 mph 70 Vacuum cleaner, average radio 75 Heavy traffic, window air conditioner, noisy restaurant, power lawn mower 80—89 sounds above 85 dB are harmful Subway, shouted conversation 90—95 Boom box, ATV, motorcycle 96— School dance — Chainsaw, leaf blower, snowmobile — Sports crowd, rock concert, loud symphony — Stock car races Gun shot, siren at feet As loudness increases, the amount of time you can hear the sound before damage occurs decreases.

Preventing damage to your hearing An easy way to become aware of potentially harmful noise is to pay attention to warning signs that a sound might be damaging to your hearing.

A sound may be harmful if: You have difficulty talking or hearing others talk over the sound. The sound makes your ears hurt. Your ears are ringing after hearing the sound. Other sounds seem muffled after you leave an area where there is loud sound.

People who may be regularly exposed to harmful noise because of their jobs include: Those who work with loud machines, vehicles, or power tools, such as construction workers, factory workers, farmers, truck drivers, mechanics, or airport ground crew workers.

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