The unit of measurement used to express the intensity of a sound is the decibel (dB). The intensity of sound and the duration of exposure to the sound contribute to the overall sound energy level to which an individual is exposed. An individual’s risk of losing their hearing depends on how loud, for how long and how often they are exposed to loud sounds. Some common sounds and their intensities (dB) are indicated below.
Device/situation | dB (approximate) |
Ticking watch | 20 |
Soft whisper | 30 |
Normal conversation | 60 |
Vacuum cleaner | 75 |
Heavy city traffic (inside the car) | 85 |
Motorcycle | 95 |
Hairdryer, subway train, car horn at 5 m | 100 |
MP3 player at maximum volume, chainsaw | 105 |
Shouting into the ear | 110 |
Discotheques, bars and club | 112 |
Loud rock concerts | 115 |
Spectator trumpet 1 m from trumpet opening, sirens | 120 |
Jackhammer, jet plane 30 m away | 130 |
Firecrackers, firearms | 150 |
| |
| |
| |