100 decibels (dBA) is around the level of bulldozers, sirens and chain saws, according to NIOSH (CDC). NIOSH recommends no more than 15 min a day at 100 dBA; OSHA permits 2 h for US workplaces.
Sounds around 100 dBA
| Level | Sound | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 74–104 dBA | Movie theater | NIDCD (NIH) |
| 80–110 dBA | Motorcycles and dirt bikes | NIDCD (NIH) |
| 94–110 dBA | Music through headphones at maximum volume, sporting events and concerts | NIDCD (NIH) |
| 95 dBA or more | Bulldozers, ambulance sirens, chain saws, bars and nightclubs, large sporting events (95 dBA or more; you likely need to shout at 3 feet) | NIOSH (CDC) |
Only examples published by US health agencies (NIDCD and NIOSH) are listed. Real sounds vary with distance and the source, so measure yours with the decibel meter.
Is 100 decibels safe?
- Long or repeated exposure to sounds at or above 85 dBA can cause hearing loss. (NIDCD (NIH))
- 14 minutes at 100 dBA can damage your hearing (NIDCD, “How Loud Is Too Loud?”). (NIDCD (NIH))
How much of your daily limit does 100 dBA use?
| Time at 100 dBA | NIOSH dose | OSHA dose |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 100% | 12% |
| 30 minutes | 200% | 25% |
| 1 hour | 400% | 50% |
| 2 hours | 800% | 100% |
| 4 hours | 1,600% | 200% |
| 8 hours | 3,200% | 400% |
100% is the full daily limit. NIOSH: 85 dBA for 8 hours, halved for every 3 dBA. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95: 90 dBA for 8 hours, halved for every 5 dBA. Add other noise in your day with the noise exposure calculator.
100 dBA on the decibel scale
100 dBA carries 32 times the sound energy of 85 dBA. Every 3 dB doubles the sound energy and every 10 dB multiplies it by ten, which is why the safe time falls so quickly as the level rises. See what is a decibel.
← 90 decibels · All levels · 110 decibels →
Common questions
Is 100 decibels safe?
For a limited time. NIOSH recommends no more than 15 min a day at 100 dBA, and OSHA permits 2 h at work.
How long can you listen to 100 decibels?
NIOSH: 15 min a day. OSHA: 2 h.
What is 100 decibels like?
Around the level of bulldozers, sirens and chain saws, according to NIOSH (CDC).
Last reviewed 14 November 2026 by Sri Murugan Systems. Found a mistake? Tell us.