Intensity Levels of Common Sounds

Decibel

- the decibel (dB) determines the intensity of the sound (loudness of sound)
- it is a logarithmic unit based on the threshold of hearing at 0 dB (total silence)


Intensity of Sound (Loudness Level)

threshold of hearing (TOH) = 0 dB
10 times more intense than TOH = 10 dB
100 times more intense than TOH = 20 dB
1,000 times more intense than TOH = 30 dB
10,000 times more intense than TOH = 40 dB
1,000,000 times more intense than TOH = 60 dB


Examples of sounds and their intensity levels

Total silence = 0 dB
Rustling Leaves = 10 dB
Whisper = 20 dB
Normal conversation = 60 dB
Busy street traffic = 70 dB 
Vacuum cleaner = 80 dB 
Lawnmower = 90 dB
Car horn = 110 dB
Rock concert or Jet engine = 120 dB
Gunshot or Firecracker = 140 dB

Notes:
* The dB ratings are based near the source of sound.
* The farther you are from the source of sound, the lesser the power (intensity) of sound.


Hearing Loss

Sounds above 85 dB = causes hearing loss
Sounds above 140 dB = causes pain and immediate eardrum damage