Decibel Shield
Decibel chart › 45 dB
How loud is 45 decibels?
45 decibels is about as loud as a refrigerator hum. It is well under the 85 dB hearing-risk line, so it is safe to hear for any length of time. On the decibel scale, each 10 dB step sounds roughly twice as loud.
Last updated:
| Sound level | 45 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | No hearing risk |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | No limit — safe at any duration |
What does 45 decibels sound like?
Everyday examples of sounds around 45 decibels, each sourced to CDC, NIOSH, NIDCD and ASHA. Open any one for its own breakdown, or see the full decibel levels chart.
- Refrigerator hum 40–45 dB
How loud is 45 decibels (45 dB)?
45 decibels is about as loud as a refrigerator hum. It is well under the 85 dB hearing-risk line, so it is safe to hear for any length of time. On the decibel scale, each 10 dB step sounds roughly twice as loud.
Is 45 decibels loud?
45 decibels is moderate, about the loudness of a refrigerator hum, not what most people would call loud. It sits around everyday conversation and background sound, and is comfortable to hear for any length of time.
Is 45 decibels dangerous, and how long is safe?
45 dB is below the 85 dB hearing-risk threshold, so there is no daily exposure limit for hearing.
Measure 45 dB yourself
Want to know if where you are hits 45 dB? Check it live with the free online decibel meter — it runs in your browser, and nothing is recorded or uploaded.