Listen: sounds near 86 dB
How loud is 86 dB?
86 decibels is very loud. 86 dB sounds about 6.1 times as loud as normal conversation (60 dB), and it carries 398 times the sound energy. Typical sounds around this level: gas lawn mower, hair dryer, heavy city traffic.
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 86 dB dangerous?
Yes, with enough exposure. NIOSH recommends no more than 6.3 hours per day at 86 dBA (US law, via OSHA, allows 13.9 hours). Hearing damage from noise is cumulative and permanent, so use earplugs or earmuffs, increase distance or reduce exposure time.
Sounds around 86 dB
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.90 dBDiesel truck
At about 15 m.90 dBDog barking
Large breeds barking at close range can exceed 100 dB.
Safe listening time
| Level | NIOSH recommended limit | OSHA legal limit (US) |
|---|---|---|
| 80 dBA | 25.4 hours | 32.0 hours |
| 83 dBA | 12.7 hours | 21.1 hours |
| 86 dBA | 6.3 hours | 13.9 hours |
| 89 dBA | 3.2 hours | 9.2 hours |
| 92 dBA | 1.6 hours | 6.1 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 86 dB loud?
86 dB is very loud. For comparison: gas lawn mower, hair dryer, heavy city traffic.
How many times louder is 86 dB than 76 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 86 dB?
NIOSH recommends a maximum of 6.3 hours per day at 86 dBA.