Decibel Shield
Decibel chart › 120 dB
How loud is 120 decibels?
120 decibels is about as loud as a thunderclap, an emergency siren. That is at or above the 85 dB hearing-risk line: NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 9 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 | 120 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | Extreme |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | About 9 seconds a day |
What does 120 decibels sound like?
Everyday examples of sounds around 120 decibels, each sourced to CDC, NIOSH, NIDCD and ASHA. Open any one for its own breakdown, or see the full decibel levels chart.
- Thunderclap 120 dB
- Emergency siren 110–129 dB
How loud is 120 decibels (120 dB)?
120 decibels is about as loud as a thunderclap, an emergency siren. That is at or above the 85 dB hearing-risk line: NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 9 seconds a day, and every 3 dB louder halves that. On the decibel scale, each 10 dB step sounds roughly twice as loud.
Is 120 decibels loud?
Yes, 120 decibels is loud, about the loudness of a thunderclap, at or above the 85 dB line, so prolonged exposure can damage hearing and ear protection is recommended.
Is 120 decibels dangerous, and how long is safe?
At 120 dB, NIOSH puts the safe daily exposure at about 9 seconds a day. Each 3 dB increase halves it.
Measure 120 dB yourself
Want to know if where you are hits 120 dB? Check it live with the free online decibel meter — it runs in your browser, and nothing is recorded or uploaded.