How loud is the threshold of pain?
The threshold of pain is about 130 dB, with a typical range of 120–140 dB. Sound starts to hurt; damage can be instant.
That is about 128 times as loud to the ear as normal conversation and 1e+07 times the sound energy.
Can it damage your hearing?
Yes, with enough exposure. At 130 dBA, NIOSH recommends a daily limit of less than a second; at the top of the range (140 dB) it is less than a second. Peaks above 140 dB can cause instant damage. 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 the threshold of pain
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.125 dBWhite bellbird
The loudest bird song ever measured: 125.4 dB at 1 m.140 dB.22 caliber rifle
Peak level at the shooter's ear.140 dBJet engine at takeoff
At about 30 m (100 ft).142 dBLoudest stadium crowd
142.2 dB at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, 2014.
Safe listening time
| Level | NIOSH recommended limit | OSHA legal limit (US) |
|---|---|---|
| 124 dBA | 4 seconds | 4.3 minutes |
| 127 dBA | 2 seconds | 2.8 minutes |
| 130 dBA | less than a second | 1.9 minutes |
| 133 dBA | less than a second | 1.2 minutes |
| 136 dBA | less than a second | 49 seconds |
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
How many decibels is the threshold of pain?
About 130 dB, with a typical range of 120–140 dB.
Is the threshold of pain louder than a jet engine?
No – a jet engine at takeoff is about 140 dB at 30 m, while the threshold of pain is about 130 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.