Listen: sounds near 85 dB
How loud is 85 dB?
85 decibels is very loud. 85 dB sounds about 5.7 times as loud as normal conversation (60 dB), and it carries 316 times the sound energy. Typical sounds around this level: airplane cabin, alarm clock, gas lawn mower.
Decibels are logarithmic: every +10 dB means ten times more sound intensity but is heard as only about twice as loud, and every +6 dB doubles the sound pressure. That is why a few decibels can make a big difference.
Is 85 dB dangerous?
Yes, with enough exposure. NIOSH recommends no more than 8.0 hours per day at 85 dBA (US law, via OSHA, allows 16.0 hours). Hearing damage from noise is cumulative and permanent, so use earplugs or earmuffs, increase distance or reduce exposure time.
Sounds around 85 dB
Cruising flight; seats near the engines are louder.80 dBAlarm clock
Measured at the pillow.85 dBGas lawn mower
CDC lists gas mowers and leaf blowers at 80–85 dB; operator-ear levels can be higher.85 dBHair dryer
Very close to the ear while in use.85 dBHeavy city traffic
Standing at the curb of a busy street.85 dBMovie theater
CDC gives 74–104 dB depending on the film and seat.85 dBSmoke alarm
Alarms must reach at least 85 dB at 3 m (10 ft).88 dBBlender
High-power blenders crushing ice are the loudest.
Safe listening time
| Level | NIOSH recommended limit | OSHA legal limit (US) |
|---|---|---|
| 79 dBA | 32.0 hours | 36.8 hours |
| 82 dBA | 16.0 hours | 24.3 hours |
| 85 dBA | 8.0 hours | 16.0 hours |
| 88 dBA | 4.0 hours | 10.6 hours |
| 91 dBA | 2.0 hours | 7.0 hours |
NIOSH: 85 dBA for 8 hours with a 3 dB exchange rate; OSHA: 90 dBA for 8 hours with a 5 dB exchange rate. General information, not medical advice – see a hearing professional about ringing ears, muffled hearing or pain.
Frequently asked questions
Is 85 dB loud?
85 dB is very loud. For comparison: airplane cabin, alarm clock, gas lawn mower.
How many times louder is 85 dB than 75 dB?
A 10 dB increase means ten times the sound intensity and is heard as roughly twice as loud.
How long can you listen to 85 dB?
NIOSH recommends a maximum of 8.0 hours per day at 85 dBA.