Online Decibel Meter

Official references, device limits, and practical precautions

Understand noise-induced hearing loss, the difference between NIOSH recommendations and OSHA limits, and why protection selection requires product instructions or a qualified assessment.

What is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?

Permanent damage to your inner ear from loud sounds. It can happen gradually from long-term exposure or suddenly from extremely loud noises.

NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit

The values below illustrate NIOSH's 85 dBA over 8 hours and 3 dB exchange rate. They are not OSHA permissible exposure limits or personalized safety advice.

85 dB8 hours
88 dB4 hours
91 dB2 hours
94 dB1 hour
97 dB30 minutes
100 dB15 minutes
103 dB7.5 minutes
106 dB3.75 minutes
109 dB1.88 minutes
112 dB56 seconds
115 dB28 seconds

NIOSH and OSHA use different occupational criteria: OSHA's permissible exposure table starts at 90 dBA for 8 hours with a 5 dB exchange rate. This browser tool is not A-weighted or certified and cannot determine compliance. NIOSH · OSHA

Choosing When and What Protection to Use

Workplace exposureFollow the employer's hearing-conservation program and a qualified, instrument-based assessment
Tools and eventsFollow equipment, venue, and hearing-protector instructions; a browser reading is not a safety clearance
Pain or sudden loud soundMove away promptly and seek appropriate medical advice for persistent symptoms

Understanding Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)

NRR is a laboratory label, not a guarantee of the attenuation an individual receives. Fit, wear time, compatibility and the assessment method matter; agencies may apply different adjustments.

For occupational decisions, use the applicable official method and, where available, individual fit testing instead of a universal arithmetic shortcut.

Types of Hearing Protection

Earplugs

Check the product's labeled attenuation rating

Disposable foam or reusable silicone

Best for: General noise reduction, sleeping, concerts

Earmuffs

Check the product's labeled attenuation rating

Over-ear protection

Best for: Industrial work, shooting ranges, power tools

Custom Molded

Check the fitted product's labeled attenuation rating

Made to fit your ear canal

Best for: Musicians, frequent flyers, regular use

Earplugs vs. Earmuffs

Earplugs

👍

  • +Portable
  • +Inexpensive
  • +Good for hot environments
  • +Compatible with other PPE

👎

  • -Harder to insert correctly
  • -Hygiene concerns
  • -Can irritate ear canal

Earmuffs

👍

  • +Easy to fit
  • +Consistent protection
  • +Durable
  • +Visible compliance

👎

  • -Bulky
  • -Hot/Heavy
  • -Interferes with glasses/helmets

Signs of Hearing Damage

See a doctor if you experience:

  • ⚠Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • ⚠Muffled hearing after noise exposure
  • ⚠Difficulty understanding speech
  • ⚠Need to increase TV/radio volume
  • ⚠Asking people to repeat themselves

Prevention Tips

  • ✓Use device volume warnings and keep personal-audio volume as low as practical
  • ✓Take listening breaks every hour
  • ✓Keep distance from loud sound sources
  • ✓Use noise-canceling headphones instead of turning up volume
  • ✓Get regular hearing tests
  • ✓Don't insert objects into ear canal

Workplace Noise Safety

Requirements vary by jurisdiction and exposure assessment. In the United States, OSHA's action level and permissible exposure limit are distinct. Follow your employer's compliant program and official rules:

  • •Use the hearing protection selected for the assessed task
  • •Take part in required training and hearing-conservation procedures
  • •Attend audiometric testing when the applicable program requires it
  • •Report noise concerns through the workplace safety process
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