Loudness of Sounds

Sound source and approximate dB level at the source

• Normal breathing    10 dB

• Leaves rustling in the breeze  20 dB

• City Traffic    80 dB

• Vacuum cleaner   85 dB

• Lawn Mower    95 dB

• Video Arcade    105 dB

• Motorcycle    110 dB

• Symphony Concert   110 db

• Leaf Blower    112 dB

• Radio Headset    113 dB

• Rock Concert (in Audience)  115 dB

• Personal Stereo Headset  115 dB

• Ambulance Siren   120dB

• Chainsaw    125 dB

• Automobile Stereo    125 db (Factory Installed)  

• Football Game (in Stadium)  127 dB

• Jackhammer    130 dB

• Balloon Pop    157 dB

• Fireworks (Range of 3 ft)  162 dB

• Handgun    166 dB

• Shotgun    170 dB

* Regular exposure of 110 dB and higher for more than one minute risks permanent hearing loss.

* No more than 15 minutes of unprotected exposure of 100 dB or higher is recommended

* Prolonged exposure to any noise over 90 dB can cause gradual hearing loss