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Decibel chart › 109 dB
How loud is 109 decibels?
109 decibels is about as loud as a chainsaw, shouting or barking directly in the ear, a personal listening device at max volume. That is at or above the 85 dB hearing-risk line: NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 2 minutes a day, and every 3 dB louder halves that. On the decibel scale, each 10 dB step sounds roughly twice as loud.
Last updated:
| Sound level | 109 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | Extreme |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | About 2 minutes a day |
What does 109 decibels sound like?
Everyday examples of sounds around 109 decibels, each sourced to CDC, NIOSH, NIDCD and ASHA. Open any one for its own breakdown, or see the full decibel levels chart.
- Chainsaw 110 dB
- Shouting or barking directly in the ear 110 dB
- Personal listening device at max volume 105–110 dB
- Nightclub or loud bar 105–110 dB
- Rock concert 105–110 dB
- Sporting event 94–110 dB
- Circular saw 96–107 dB
- Emergency siren 110–129 dB
How loud is 109 decibels (109 dB)?
109 decibels is about as loud as a chainsaw, shouting or barking directly in the ear, a personal listening device at max volume. That is at or above the 85 dB hearing-risk line: NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 2 minutes a day, and every 3 dB louder halves that. On the decibel scale, each 10 dB step sounds roughly twice as loud.
Is 109 decibels loud?
Yes, 109 decibels is loud, about the loudness of a chainsaw, at or above the 85 dB line, so prolonged exposure can damage hearing and ear protection is recommended.
Is 109 decibels dangerous, and how long is safe?
At 109 dB, NIOSH puts the safe daily exposure at about 2 minutes a day. Each 3 dB increase halves it.
Measure 109 dB yourself
Want to know if where you are hits 109 dB? Check it live with the free online decibel meter — it runs in your browser, and nothing is recorded or uploaded.