Listen: sounds near 107 dB
How loud is 107 dB?
107 decibels is extremely loud. 107 dB sounds about 26.0 times as loud as normal conversation (60 dB), and it carries 5.01e+04 times the sound energy. Typical sounds around this level: circular saw, symphony orchestra (peak), baby crying.
Decibels are logarithmic: every +10 dB means ten times more sound intensity but is heard as only about twice as loud, and every +6 dB doubles the sound pressure. That is why a few decibels can make a big difference.
Is 107 dB dangerous?
Yes, with enough exposure. NIOSH recommends no more than 3.0 minutes per day at 107 dBA (US law, via OSHA, allows 45 minutes). Hearing damage from noise is cumulative and permanent, so use earplugs or earmuffs, increase distance or reduce exposure time.
Sounds around 107 dB
At the operator's position.105 dBSymphony orchestra (peak)
Musicians inside the orchestra are exposed more than the audience.110 dBBaby crying
Very close to the ear; levels drop quickly with distance.110 dBBagpipes
Highland pipes at the player's ear.110 dBCar alarm
Measured close to the vehicle.110 dBCar horn
At about 1 m in front of the car.110 dBChainsaw
NIOSH lists a chainsaw at about 110 dB.110 dBDrum kit
At the drummer's position; cymbal crashes peak higher.
Safe listening time
| Level | NIOSH recommended limit | OSHA legal limit (US) |
|---|---|---|
| 101 dBA | 12 minutes | 1.7 hours |
| 104 dBA | 6.0 minutes | 1.1 hours |
| 107 dBA | 3.0 minutes | 45 minutes |
| 110 dBA | 1.5 minutes | 30 minutes |
| 113 dBA | 45 seconds | 20 minutes |
NIOSH: 85 dBA for 8 hours with a 3 dB exchange rate; OSHA: 90 dBA for 8 hours with a 5 dB exchange rate. General information, not medical advice – see a hearing professional about ringing ears, muffled hearing or pain.
Frequently asked questions
Is 107 dB loud?
107 dB is extremely loud. For comparison: circular saw, symphony orchestra (peak), baby crying.
How many times louder is 107 dB than 97 dB?
A 10 dB increase means ten times the sound intensity and is heard as roughly twice as loud.
How long can you listen to 107 dB?
NIOSH recommends a maximum of 3.0 minutes per day at 107 dBA.