Hearing Protection from Harmful Sounds

Sounds That Harm Hearing

Learn the surprising decibel levels of common noises in your environment and how to protect your ears

For Crying Out Loud

The devil’s in the decibels: Any sound louder than 85 dB can lead to hearing loss. Continuous or oft-repeated exposure can make matters worse. Take sensible precautions — earplugs or other protection — when it comes to even the following ordinary situations.

Hairdryer 80-100 dB

Do you use one daily for 10 to 20 minutes? Look for a model that’s advertised as “quiet” — which generally means around 60 dB. Choose a dryer with adjustable speeds; a slower speed makes less noise. A removable air filter lets you clean away dust and particles that make the dryer work harder and thus make more noise.

Garbage Truck 85-100 dB

Here’s hoping that the truck comes early in the morning while you’re still inside.

Gas Lawn Mower or Leaf Blower 90 dB

Keep these chores to two hours or less at a time. Earplugs are recommended.

Power Tools 100 dB

Operating table saws, circular saws, chain saws, jackhammers and such for more than 15 minutes can cause damage. It’s always best to wear ear protection (eye protection, too) anytime you operate power tools.

Elementary School 100 dB

It can be fun and rewarding to volunteer, but minimize your time in the cafeteria during lunch and at crowded activities in the gym. And don’t stand right under the bells.

Motorboats and Motorcycles 80-100 dB

There are manufacturing regulations in place to control the noise emitted by engines. But people often add devices to make sport-vehicle engines rev even louder. Bring those earplugs along. Two minutes in a speeding motorboat can be harmful.

Snowmobiles 85-100 dB

Wear in-helmet earmuffs. Cold temps can hurt your ears, too.

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Emergency Vehicle Siren 110-120 dB

Cover your ears with your hands.

Thunderclap 120 dB

Where there’s thunder, there’s also lightning. Just stay inside where it’s safe.

Shotguns Handguns Rifles 140-175 dB

Wear protection for all kinds of sport or target practice. The blast from any firearm can cause immediate damage. Buy one of the various special devices made for shooters that are recommended by the

Cockpit of a Formula One Car 140 dB

Think getting behind the wheel of a race car would make a fun birthday gift? You may want to reconsider. Only a few other sounds reach this range, including firearms and rocket launches. Just a spectator? Ear protection is still a must.

Jet Engine at 100 Feet 140 dB

If you’re one of those people who like to sit or park across from the airport runway and watch the jets fly overhead, wear protection.

Professional Fireworks Display 150-175 dB

Adults need to be at least 50 feet away, while children should be at least 165 feet away. (Earplugs are also recommended.) If you’re lighting the garden variety for a home celebration, follow the manufacturer’s distance instructions.

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