Decibel Shield
Decibel chart › 138 dB
How loud is 138 decibels?
138 decibels is about as loud as firecrackers, a jet engine at takeoff, a firearm at the shooter's ear. That is at or above the 85 dB hearing-risk line: NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 1 second 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 | 138 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | Extreme |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | About 1 second a day |
What does 138 decibels sound like?
Everyday examples of sounds around 138 decibels, each sourced to CDC, NIOSH, NIDCD and ASHA. Open any one for its own breakdown, or see the full decibel levels chart.
- Firecrackers 140–150 dB
- Jet engine at takeoff 140–150 dB
- Firearm at the shooter's ear 140–165 dB
How loud is 138 decibels (138 dB)?
138 decibels is about as loud as firecrackers, a jet engine at takeoff, a firearm at the shooter's ear. That is at or above the 85 dB hearing-risk line: NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 1 second a day, and every 3 dB louder halves that. On the decibel scale, each 10 dB step sounds roughly twice as loud.
Is 138 decibels loud?
Yes, 138 decibels is loud, about the loudness of firecrackers, at or above the 85 dB line, so prolonged exposure can damage hearing and ear protection is recommended.
Is 138 decibels dangerous, and how long is safe?
At 138 dB, NIOSH puts the safe daily exposure at about 1 second a day. Each 3 dB increase halves it.
Measure 138 dB yourself
Want to know if where you are hits 138 dB? Check it live with the free online decibel meter — it runs in your browser, and nothing is recorded or uploaded.