Listen: sounds near 114 dB
How loud is 114 dB?
114 decibels is extremely loud. 114 dB sounds about 42.2 times as loud as normal conversation (60 dB), and it carries 2.51e+05 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 114 dB dangerous?
Yes, with enough exposure. NIOSH recommends no more than 35 seconds per day at 114 dBA (US law, via OSHA, allows 17 minutes). Hearing damage from noise is cumulative and permanent, so use earplugs or earmuffs, increase distance or reduce exposure time.
Sounds around 114 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.114 dBLion roar
Commonly cited maximum, at about 1 m. Roars carry up to 8 km.116 dBScreaming piha
One of the loudest birds measured, at 1 m.
Safe listening time
| Level | NIOSH recommended limit | OSHA legal limit (US) |
|---|---|---|
| 108 dBA | 2.4 minutes | 40 minutes |
| 111 dBA | 1.2 minutes | 26 minutes |
| 114 dBA | 35 seconds | 17 minutes |
| 117 dBA | 18 seconds | 11 minutes |
| 120 dBA | 9 seconds | 7.5 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 114 dB loud?
114 dB is extremely loud. For comparison: baby crying, bagpipes, car alarm.
How many times louder is 114 dB than 104 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 114 dB?
NIOSH recommends a maximum of 35 seconds per day at 114 dBA.