Decibel Shield
Decibel chart › Train horn
How loud is a train horn?
A train horn measures 96–110 dB, roughly as loud as a sporting event. At 110 dB it is at or above the 85 dB line where hearing damage starts: NIOSH puts the safe limit at about 1 minute a day. Normal conversation runs about 60 dB for comparison.
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| Decibel level | 96–110 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | High risk — Federal rule sets locomotive horns between 96 and 110 dB; at the top of that range NIOSH's safe time is about 90 seconds |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | About 1 minute a day |
| Typical setting | city |
Figures sourced to FRA. See the full decibel levels chart for every source.
How a train horn compares
On the decibel scale, 96–110 dB sits above the 85 dB line where sustained exposure damages hearing. Sounds at a similar level:
- Sporting event 94–110 dB
- Circular saw 96–107 dB
- Car horn at 5 m 100 dB
- Approaching subway train 100 dB
Everything at this level, with safe exposure times: how loud is 103 dB? →
How loud is a train horn?
A train horn measures 96–110 dB, roughly as loud as a sporting event. At 110 dB it is at or above the 85 dB line where hearing damage starts: NIOSH puts the safe limit at about 1 minute a day. Normal conversation runs about 60 dB for comparison.
Is a train horn dangerous to hearing?
Yes — at 110 dB, a train horn is loud enough to damage hearing over time. NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 1 minute a day; use hearing protection beyond that.
Measure it yourself
Decibel levels vary with distance and surroundings. Check the real level where you are with the free online decibel meter — no install, nothing recorded — or see the full decibel levels chart.