Loud Noise
What are decibels (dB)?
Sound levels are commonly measured in units called decibels (dB).
Noise levels above 80dB can damage your hearing. The damage can be instant for very loud noises, but in most cases it is gradual and by the time you notice it is too late.
Continuous exposure to sounds at 100-110dB can cause damage after approximately 15 minutes. At 110-120dB damage can occur with exposures of less than 30 seconds.
Many musicians are at risk of hearing loss because their ears can be exposed to average levels of 90dB and peak levels of 110-120dB during a musical performance. Generally, whilst making music, musicians are practically always in an environment above the safe limit of 80dB.
Comparing decibel levels to real examples
Here are some examples of things that produce noise and their decibel levels, so that you can better understand what might be classed as excessive/dangerous noise levels.
- 15-25 dB: Whispering
- 45-55 dB: Rainfall
- 55-65 dB: Normal speech
- 75 dB: Washing machine on spin cycle
- 78-85 dB: Busy city traffic
The following noise levels are above the safe limit of 80db, so you should avoid continuous exposure:
- 85-95 dB: Hair dryer / lawn mower
- 95-105 dB: Typical volume settings for most people's iPods
- 105-115 dB: Rock concert
- 115-120 dB: Chainsaw
- 120 dB: Thunder
- 120-125 dB: Ambulance siren
- 140 dB: Jet plane taking off 25 metres away.
Even very short exposure to noise levels above this level can cause hearing loss through acoustic trauma:
- 145 dB: Firework explosion
- 170 dB: Shotgun fire
- 180 dB: Rocket launch
Take care of your ears
Hearing loss and conditions such as tinnitus (phantom ringing in the ears) caused by excessive noise can be permanent, so it's important to look after your hearing. If you're in an environment with continuous loud noise, such as a nightclub, make sure you take frequent breaks to a quiet area or outside.
For musicians and DJs, wear earplugs or noise cancelling headphones to reduce the level of noise reaching your ears while in loud environments.