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Decibel chart › 125 dB
How loud is 125 decibels?
125 decibels is about as loud as an emergency siren. That is at or above the 85 dB hearing-risk line: NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 3 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 | 125 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | Extreme |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | About 3 seconds a day |
What does 125 decibels sound like?
Everyday examples of sounds around 125 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
How loud is 125 decibels (125 dB)?
125 decibels is about as loud as an emergency siren. That is at or above the 85 dB hearing-risk line: NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 3 seconds a day, and every 3 dB louder halves that. On the decibel scale, each 10 dB step sounds roughly twice as loud.
Is 125 decibels loud?
Yes, 125 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 125 decibels dangerous, and how long is safe?
At 125 dB, NIOSH puts the safe daily exposure at about 3 seconds a day. Each 3 dB increase halves it.
Measure 125 dB yourself
Want to know if where you are hits 125 dB? Check it live with the free online decibel meter — it runs in your browser, and nothing is recorded or uploaded.