Since we’ve already established that being near sounds above 200 decibels will kill you instantly, these are just here as fun facts. Note that since it’s not possible to put a decibel meter near many of these events and have it survive, dB levels above 200 are mostly theoretical.

The loudness of sounds is measured in decibels (dB)….Decibels Explained.

The noise range for modern fridge freezer is 32 to 47 decibels. Anything quieter than 40 dB is considered a quiet model, as this is the noise level of a library. In either case, the difference in sound is usually only a few decibels, so you’re unlikely to notice it.

An improperly fitted, dirty or worn-out plug may not seal and can irritate the ear canal. Properly fitted earplugs or muffs reduce noise 15 to 30 dB. The better earplugs and muffs are approximately equal in sound reduction, although earplugs are better for low frequency noise and earmuffs for high frequency noise.

Relative means that dB is only a useful measurement when compared to other dB values. Logarithmic means that, for every 10 dB, the corresponding real-world volume doubles. 40 dB is twice as loud as 30 dB, and half as loud as 50 dB.

A noise level chart showing examples of sounds with dB levels ranging from 0 to 180 decibels. Most noise levels are given in dBA, which are decibels adjusted to reflect the ear’s response to different frequencies of sound. Sudden, brief impulse sounds, like many of those shown at 120 dB or greater, are often given in dB (no adjustment).

Dangerous Range (85 to 115 dB) Sounds at this range can damage your hearing, either immediately or through prolonged exposure. Without ear protection, nobody should be exposed to 90 dB for more than 8 hours per day, 100 dB for 2 hours, 105 dB for 1 hour, or 110 dB for more than half an hour. Serious Injury Range (115 dB to 140 dB)