Decibel chart › 112 dB
How loud is 112 decibels?
112 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 56 seconds 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 | 112 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | Extreme |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | About 56 seconds a day |
What does 112 decibels sound like?
Everyday examples of sounds around 112 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
- Emergency siren 110–129 dB
- Sporting event 94–110 dB
How loud is 112 decibels (112 dB)?
112 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 56 seconds a day, and every 3 dB louder halves that. On the decibel scale, each 10 dB step sounds roughly twice as loud.
Is 112 decibels loud?
Yes, 112 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 112 decibels dangerous, and how long is safe?
At 112 dB, NIOSH puts the safe daily exposure at about 56 seconds a day. Each 3 dB increase halves it.
Measure 112 dB yourself
Want to know if where you are hits 112 dB? Check it live with the free online decibel meter — it runs in your browser, and nothing is recorded or uploaded.