Listen: sounds near 116 dB
How loud is 116 dB?
116 decibels is extremely loud. 116 dB sounds about 48.5 times as loud as normal conversation (60 dB), and it carries 3.98e+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 116 dB dangerous?
Yes, with enough exposure. NIOSH recommends no more than 22 seconds per day at 116 dBA (US law, via OSHA, allows 13 minutes). Hearing damage from noise is cumulative and permanent, so use earplugs or earmuffs, increase distance or reduce exposure time.
Sounds around 116 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.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.120 dBEmergency siren
CDC lists sirens at 110–129 dB.120 dBThunder (close)
A strike within a few hundred metres.120 dBVuvuzela
At 1 m from the horn.
Safe listening time
| Level | NIOSH recommended limit | OSHA legal limit (US) |
|---|---|---|
| 110 dBA | 1.5 minutes | 30 minutes |
| 113 dBA | 45 seconds | 20 minutes |
| 116 dBA | 22 seconds | 13 minutes |
| 119 dBA | 11 seconds | 8.6 minutes |
| 122 dBA | 6 seconds | 5.7 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 116 dB loud?
116 dB is extremely loud. For comparison: baby crying, bagpipes, car alarm.
How many times louder is 116 dB than 106 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 116 dB?
NIOSH recommends a maximum of 22 seconds per day at 116 dBA.