Listen: sounds near 88 dB
How loud is 88 dB?
88 decibels is very loud. 88 dB sounds about 7.0 times as loud as normal conversation (60 dB), and it carries 631 times the sound energy. Typical sounds around this level: blender, diesel truck, dog barking.
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 88 dB dangerous?
Yes, with enough exposure. NIOSH recommends no more than 4.0 hours per day at 88 dBA (US law, via OSHA, allows 10.6 hours). Hearing damage from noise is cumulative and permanent, so use earplugs or earmuffs, increase distance or reduce exposure time.
Sounds around 88 dB
High-power blenders crushing ice are the loudest.90 dBDiesel truck
At about 15 m.90 dBDog barking
Large breeds barking at close range can exceed 100 dB.90 dBJet hand dryer
A 2019 study measured up to 110 dB at a child's ear height.90 dBLarge waterfall
Standing near the plunge pool of a big fall.90 dBLeaf blower
Backpack gas blowers are the loudest; battery models are quieter.90 dBPassing freight train
At about 15 m from the track.90 dBPiano (played loudly)
Fortissimo chords near the instrument.
Safe listening time
| Level | NIOSH recommended limit | OSHA legal limit (US) |
|---|---|---|
| 82 dBA | 16.0 hours | 24.3 hours |
| 85 dBA | 8.0 hours | 16.0 hours |
| 88 dBA | 4.0 hours | 10.6 hours |
| 91 dBA | 2.0 hours | 7.0 hours |
| 94 dBA | 1.0 hours | 4.6 hours |
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 88 dB loud?
88 dB is very loud. For comparison: blender, diesel truck, dog barking.
How many times louder is 88 dB than 78 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 88 dB?
NIOSH recommends a maximum of 4.0 hours per day at 88 dBA.