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Decibel chart › 91 dB
How loud is 91 decibels?
91 decibels is about as loud as a tractor with no cab, a shouted conversation, riding a subway. That is at or above the 85 dB hearing-risk line: NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 2 hours 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 | 91 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | High |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | About 2 hours a day |
What does 91 decibels sound like?
Everyday examples of sounds around 91 decibels, each sourced to CDC, NIOSH, NIDCD and ASHA. Open any one for its own breakdown, or see the full decibel levels chart.
- Tractor with no cab 82–100 dB
- Shouted conversation 90 dB
- Riding a subway 90–95 dB
- Movie theater 74–104 dB
- Barking dogs 88.4–100.3 dB
- Hair dryer 80–90 dB
- Kitchen blender 80–90 dB
How loud is 91 decibels (91 dB)?
91 decibels is about as loud as a tractor with no cab, a shouted conversation, riding a subway. That is at or above the 85 dB hearing-risk line: NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 2 hours a day, and every 3 dB louder halves that. On the decibel scale, each 10 dB step sounds roughly twice as loud.
Is 91 decibels loud?
Yes, 91 decibels is loud, about the loudness of a tractor with no cab, at or above the 85 dB line, so prolonged exposure can damage hearing and ear protection is recommended.
Is 91 decibels dangerous, and how long is safe?
At 91 dB, NIOSH puts the safe daily exposure at about 2 hours a day. Each 3 dB increase halves it.
Measure 91 dB yourself
Want to know if where you are hits 91 dB? Check it live with the free online decibel meter — it runs in your browser, and nothing is recorded or uploaded.