Protect Your Hearing
Know which noises can cause damage. Wear earplugs when you are involved in a loud activity. Sponsored by the NIDCD, It's a Noisy Planet. Protect Their Hearing aims to increase awareness among parents of children ages 8 to 12 about the causes and prevention of noise-induced hearing loss.
110 Decibels
Regular exposure of more than 1 minute risks permanent hearing loss.
100 Decibels
No more than 15 minutes of unprotected exposure recommended.
85 Decibels
Prolonged exposure to any noise at or above 85 decibels can cause gradual hearing loss.
Get sound advice.
For more information, visit http://noisyplanet.nidcd.nih.gov.
150 Firecracker
120 Ambulance siren
110 Chain saw, rock concert
105 Personal stereo system at maximum level
100 Wood shop, snowmobile
95 Motorcycle
90 Power mower
85 Heavy city traffic
60 Normal conversation
40 Refrigerator humming
30 Whispered voice