Decibels (dB)

A decibel (dB) is a unit used to measure how loud a sound is (intensity). For example, a whisper usually measures about 15 dB to 30 dB, a vacuum cleaner about 75 dB, and a motorcycle about 100 dB. Any sound over 85 dB is considered harmful.

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Author

Medical review

Adam Husney MDCharles M. Myer III MDKathleen Romito MDWilliam H. Blahd Jr. MD FACEP

Last Updated

10/21/2018

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

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Decibels (dB)

A decibel (dB) is a unit used to measure how loud a sound is (intensity).

For example, a whisper usually measures about 15 dB to 30 dB, a vacuum cleaner about 75 dB, and a motorcycle about 100 dB. Any sound over 85 dB is considered harmful.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

Share this article

Article Info

Author

Medical review

Adam Husney MDCharles M. Myer III MDKathleen Romito MDWilliam H. Blahd Jr. MD FACEP

Last Updated

10/21/2018

Legal

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.