Noise Level and Safe Exposure Calculator
Compare decibel levels of common sounds and calculate maximum safe exposure time at any noise level.
Noise Level Analysis
Decibels (dB) measure sound intensity on a logarithmic scale. Every 10 dB increase means the sound is 10 times more intense.
Safe exposure time decreases as noise increases. The NIOSH formula:
Max hours = 8 / (2 ^ ((dB - 85) / 3))
At 85 dB, safe exposure is 8 hours. Every 3 dB increase halves the safe time.
Common noise levels:
| Source | Level (dB) | Safe Exposure |
|---|---|---|
| Whisper | 30 | Unlimited |
| Normal conversation | 60 | Unlimited |
| Vacuum cleaner | 70 | Unlimited |
| Busy traffic | 80 | 25 hours |
| Lawn mower | 85 | 8 hours |
| Concert | 100 | 15 minutes |
| Chainsaw | 110 | 1.5 minutes |
| Jet takeoff (nearby) | 130 | Immediate danger |
Hearing damage can occur at any level above 85 dB with prolonged exposure.