Listen: sounds near 99 dB
How loud is 99 dB?
99 decibels is very loud. 99 dB sounds about 14.9 times as loud as normal conversation (60 dB), and it carries 7.94e+03 times the sound energy. Typical sounds around this level: water boatman (micronecta scholtzi), cicada chorus, construction site.
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 99 dB dangerous?
Yes, with enough exposure. NIOSH recommends no more than 19 minutes per day at 99 dBA (US law, via OSHA, allows 2.3 hours). Hearing damage from noise is cumulative and permanent, so use earplugs or earmuffs, increase distance or reduce exposure time.
Sounds around 99 dB
A 2 mm insect that 'sings' by rubbing its penis on its abdomen – loudest relative to body size.100 dBCicada chorus
Some species exceed 100 dB at 50 cm.100 dBConstruction site
Mixed heavy machinery nearby.100 dBGarbage truck
Compactor running, at curbside.100 dBHeadphones at max volume
CDC: personal listening devices at maximum volume reach 94–110 dB.100 dBHelicopter
Flying overhead at about 30 m (100 ft).100 dBNightclub
On the dance floor.100 dBRooster crowing
Over 130 dB has been measured at the rooster's own ear canal.
Safe listening time
| Level | NIOSH recommended limit | OSHA legal limit (US) |
|---|---|---|
| 93 dBA | 1.3 hours | 5.3 hours |
| 96 dBA | 38 minutes | 3.5 hours |
| 99 dBA | 19 minutes | 2.3 hours |
| 102 dBA | 9.4 minutes | 1.5 hours |
| 105 dBA | 4.7 minutes | 1.0 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 99 dB loud?
99 dB is very loud. For comparison: water boatman (micronecta scholtzi), cicada chorus, construction site.
How many times louder is 99 dB than 89 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 99 dB?
NIOSH recommends a maximum of 19 minutes per day at 99 dBA.