Noise level is measured in decibels (dB). The louder the noise, the higher the decibels. Decibels can be adjusted to human hearing. Noise level is thus described in decibels A (dBA). The effects of noise vary with the noise to which a person is exposed. Prolonged exposure to loud noises (75 dBA over eight hours a day for years) can lead to hearing loss. The body can also respond to lower noise levels: sleep can be disturbed by an outdoor noise of 40 dBA.
Examples of Noise Sources and Human Responses by Noise Level
0 dBA
Example of noise:
no sound is perceptible.
Human reaction:
the threshold of hearing.
10 dBA
Example of noise:
breathing.
Human reaction:
the sound is barely audible.
20 dBA
Example of noise:
whispers heard a metre away; light wind in trees.
Human reaction:
a sense of deep calmness.
30 dBA
Example of noise:
a low-voice conversation.
Human reaction:
a sense of calmness.
40 dBA
Example of noise:
library, refrigerator, a quiet street at night.
Human reaction:
a peaceful area.
50 dBA
Example of noise:
moderate rain, washing machine.
Human reaction:
the beginning of disturbance.
60 dBA
Example of noise:
normal conversation.
70 dBA
Example of noise:
busy street, vacuum cleaner.
Human reaction:
disruptive when on the telephone.
80 dBA
Example of noise:
alarm clock, factory, noisy restaurant.
Human reaction:
difficult to have a conversation; a feeling of heavy noise.
90 dBA
Example of noise:
subway, lawnmower, alarm.
100 dBA
Example of noise:
drill, chainsaw, motorcycle.
110 dBA
Example of noise:
loud concert, club.
Human reaction:
bearable for a short period of time; maximum vocal effort to be heard.
120 dBA
Example of noise:
emergency vehicle siren, airplane takeoff heard from about 300 metres.
Human reaction:
beginning of pain.
130 dBA
Example of noise:
jackhammer, pneumatic tool.
Human reaction:
pain.
140 dBA
Example of noise:
airplane takeoff heard from about 50 metres.
Human reaction:
unbearable pain.
Last update:
June 9, 2021
Notice
Information on the website in no way replaces the opinion of a health professional. If you have questions concerning your health status, consult a professional.