How loud is a circular saw?
A circular saw is about 105 dB, with a typical range of 100–110 dB. At the operator's position.
That is about 23 times as loud to the ear as normal conversation and 3.16e+04 times the sound energy.
Can it damage your hearing?
Yes, with enough exposure. At 105 dBA, NIOSH recommends a daily limit of 4.7 minutes; at the top of the range (110 dB) it is 1.5 minutes. 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 circular saw
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.105 dBSymphony orchestra (peak)
Musicians inside the orchestra are exposed more than the audience.
Safe listening time
| Level | NIOSH recommended limit | OSHA legal limit (US) |
|---|---|---|
| 99 dBA | 19 minutes | 2.3 hours |
| 102 dBA | 9.4 minutes | 1.5 hours |
| 105 dBA | 4.7 minutes | 1.0 hours |
| 108 dBA | 2.4 minutes | 40 minutes |
| 111 dBA | 1.2 minutes | 26 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
- Construction Circular Saw by deleted_user_7146007 – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Circular Saw 04 170501_1492.wav by megashroom – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Circular Saw 01 170501_1491.wav by megashroom – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Circular Saw 02 170501_1492.wav by megashroom – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Circular Saw 02 170501_1491.wav by megashroom – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
Frequently asked questions
How many decibels is a circular saw?
About 105 dB, with a typical range of 100–110 dB.
Is a circular saw louder than a jet engine?
No – a jet engine at takeoff is about 140 dB at 30 m, while a circular saw is about 105 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.