Listen: sounds near 115 dB
How loud is 115 dB?
115 decibels is extremely loud. 115 dB sounds about 45.3 times as loud as normal conversation (60 dB), and it carries 3.16e+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 115 dB dangerous?
Yes, with enough exposure. NIOSH recommends no more than 28 seconds per day at 115 dBA (US law, via OSHA, allows 15 minutes). Hearing damage from noise is cumulative and permanent, so use earplugs or earmuffs, increase distance or reduce exposure time.
Sounds around 115 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) |
|---|---|---|
| 109 dBA | 1.9 minutes | 34 minutes |
| 112 dBA | 56 seconds | 23 minutes |
| 115 dBA | 28 seconds | 15 minutes |
| 118 dBA | 14 seconds | 9.9 minutes |
| 121 dBA | 7 seconds | 6.5 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 115 dB loud?
115 dB is extremely loud. For comparison: baby crying, bagpipes, car alarm.
How many times louder is 115 dB than 105 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 115 dB?
NIOSH recommends a maximum of 28 seconds per day at 115 dBA.