Listen: sounds near 91 dB
How loud is 91 dB?
91 decibels is very loud. 91 dB sounds about 8.6 times as loud as normal conversation (60 dB), and it carries 1.26e+03 times the sound energy. Typical sounds around this level: diesel truck, dog barking, jet hand dryer.
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 91 dB dangerous?
Yes, with enough exposure. NIOSH recommends no more than 2.0 hours per day at 91 dBA (US law, via OSHA, allows 7.0 hours). Hearing damage from noise is cumulative and permanent, so use earplugs or earmuffs, increase distance or reduce exposure time.
Sounds around 91 dB
At about 15 m.90 dBDog barking
Large breeds barking at close range can exceed 100 dB.90 dBJet hand dryer
A 2019 study measured up to 110 dB at a child's ear height.90 dBLarge waterfall
Standing near the plunge pool of a big fall.90 dBLeaf blower
Backpack gas blowers are the loudest; battery models are quieter.90 dBPassing freight train
At about 15 m from the track.90 dBPiano (played loudly)
Fortissimo chords near the instrument.90 dBViolin (at the player's ear)
Violinists' left ears receive more sound than the audience.
Safe listening time
| Level | NIOSH recommended limit | OSHA legal limit (US) |
|---|---|---|
| 85 dBA | 8.0 hours | 16.0 hours |
| 88 dBA | 4.0 hours | 10.6 hours |
| 91 dBA | 2.0 hours | 7.0 hours |
| 94 dBA | 1.0 hours | 4.6 hours |
| 97 dBA | 30 minutes | 3.0 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 91 dB loud?
91 dB is very loud. For comparison: diesel truck, dog barking, jet hand dryer.
How many times louder is 91 dB than 81 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 91 dB?
NIOSH recommends a maximum of 2.0 hours per day at 91 dBA.