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Decibel chart › 117 dB
How loud is 117 decibels?
117 decibels is about as loud as a pneumatic rock drill, an emergency siren. That is at or above the 85 dB hearing-risk line: NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 18 seconds a day, and every 3 dB louder halves that. On the decibel scale, each 10 dB step sounds roughly twice as loud.
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| Sound level | 117 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | Extreme |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | About 18 seconds a day |
What does 117 decibels sound like?
Everyday examples of sounds around 117 decibels, each sourced to CDC, NIOSH, NIDCD and ASHA. Open any one for its own breakdown, or see the full decibel levels chart.
- Pneumatic rock drill 115 dB
- Emergency siren 110–129 dB
How loud is 117 decibels (117 dB)?
117 decibels is about as loud as a pneumatic rock drill, an emergency siren. That is at or above the 85 dB hearing-risk line: NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 18 seconds a day, and every 3 dB louder halves that. On the decibel scale, each 10 dB step sounds roughly twice as loud.
Is 117 decibels loud?
Yes, 117 decibels is loud, about the loudness of a pneumatic rock drill, at or above the 85 dB line, so prolonged exposure can damage hearing and ear protection is recommended.
Is 117 decibels dangerous, and how long is safe?
At 117 dB, NIOSH puts the safe daily exposure at about 18 seconds a day. Each 3 dB increase halves it.
Measure 117 dB yourself
Want to know if where you are hits 117 dB? Check it live with the free online decibel meter — it runs in your browser, and nothing is recorded or uploaded.