Decibel Shield
Decibel chart › 118 dB
How loud is 118 decibels?
118 decibels is about as loud as an emergency siren, a thunderclap. That is at or above the 85 dB hearing-risk line: NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 14 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 | 118 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | Extreme |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | About 14 seconds a day |
What does 118 decibels sound like?
Everyday examples of sounds around 118 decibels, each sourced to CDC, NIOSH, NIDCD and ASHA. Open any one for its own breakdown, or see the full decibel levels chart.
- Emergency siren 110–129 dB
- Thunderclap 120 dB
How loud is 118 decibels (118 dB)?
118 decibels is about as loud as an emergency siren, a thunderclap. That is at or above the 85 dB hearing-risk line: NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 14 seconds a day, and every 3 dB louder halves that. On the decibel scale, each 10 dB step sounds roughly twice as loud.
Is 118 decibels loud?
Yes, 118 decibels is loud, about the loudness of an emergency siren, at or above the 85 dB line, so prolonged exposure can damage hearing and ear protection is recommended.
Is 118 decibels dangerous, and how long is safe?
At 118 dB, NIOSH puts the safe daily exposure at about 14 seconds a day. Each 3 dB increase halves it.
Measure 118 dB yourself
Want to know if where you are hits 118 dB? Check it live with the free online decibel meter — it runs in your browser, and nothing is recorded or uploaded.