How loud is a chainsaw?
A chainsaw is about 110 dB, with a typical range of 106–120 dB. NIOSH lists a chainsaw at about 110 dB.
That is about 32 times as loud to the ear as normal conversation and 1e+05 times the sound energy.
Can it damage your hearing?
Yes, with enough exposure. At 110 dBA, NIOSH recommends a daily limit of 1.5 minutes; at the top of the range (120 dB) it is 9 seconds. Wear earplugs or earmuffs, keep your distance and limit time near the source.
How sound level changes with distance
Decibel figures always depend on distance. For a small source in open air, every doubling of distance lowers the level by about 6 dB; indoors, reflections reduce that drop. Use the sound-vs-distance calculator to estimate the level where you are.
Sounds as loud as a chainsaw
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 dBDrum kit
At the drummer's position; cymbal crashes peak higher.110 dBJackhammer
At the operator's position.110 dBMRI scanner
Patients are given hearing protection for this reason.110 dBRock concert
CDC: concerts 94–110 dB; front rows near speakers can be louder.
Safe listening time
| Level | NIOSH recommended limit | OSHA legal limit (US) |
|---|---|---|
| 104 dBA | 6.0 minutes | 1.1 hours |
| 107 dBA | 3.0 minutes | 45 minutes |
| 110 dBA | 1.5 minutes | 30 minutes |
| 113 dBA | 45 seconds | 20 minutes |
| 116 dBA | 22 seconds | 13 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.
More recordings elsewhere
- Chainsaw (Instrumental Version) by Josh Woodward (Instrumental Versions) – CC BY 3.0 (jamendo)
- 080320 Chainsaw start, branches falling and engine cut.wav by BoilingSand – CC BY 3.0 (freesound)
- Chainsaw Start.wav by esperri – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Chainsaw by Hard3eat – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Chainsaw - Tree cases.WAV by Ohrwurm – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
Frequently asked questions
How many decibels is a chainsaw?
About 110 dB, with a typical range of 106–120 dB.
Is a chainsaw louder than a jet engine?
No – a jet engine at takeoff is about 140 dB at 30 m, while a chainsaw is about 110 dB.
How are these levels measured?
With a sound level meter, usually A-weighted (dBA) to match human hearing. Published figures depend on distance and conditions, so treat them as typical values.