Listen: sounds near 109 dB
How loud is 109 dB?
109 decibels is extremely loud. 109 dB sounds about 29.9 times as loud as normal conversation (60 dB), and it carries 7.94e+04 times the sound energy. Typical sounds around this level: baby crying, bagpipes, car alarm.
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 109 dB dangerous?
Yes, with enough exposure. NIOSH recommends no more than 1.9 minutes per day at 109 dBA (US law, via OSHA, allows 34 minutes). Hearing damage from noise is cumulative and permanent, so use earplugs or earmuffs, increase distance or reduce exposure time.
Sounds around 109 dB
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.110 dBJackhammer
At the operator's position.110 dBMRI scanner
Patients are given hearing protection for this reason.
Safe listening time
| Level | NIOSH recommended limit | OSHA legal limit (US) |
|---|---|---|
| 103 dBA | 7.5 minutes | 1.3 hours |
| 106 dBA | 3.8 minutes | 52 minutes |
| 109 dBA | 1.9 minutes | 34 minutes |
| 112 dBA | 56 seconds | 23 minutes |
| 115 dBA | 28 seconds | 15 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 109 dB loud?
109 dB is extremely loud. For comparison: baby crying, bagpipes, car alarm.
How many times louder is 109 dB than 99 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 109 dB?
NIOSH recommends a maximum of 1.9 minutes per day at 109 dBA.