110 decibels (dBA) is around the level of sirens, according to NIDCD (NIH). NIOSH recommends no more than 1 min 29 s a day at 110 dBA; OSHA permits 30 min for US workplaces.
Sounds around 110 dBA
| Level | Sound | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 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) |
| 110–129 dBA | Sirens | NIDCD (NIH) |
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 110 decibels safe?
- Long or repeated exposure to sounds at or above 85 dBA can cause hearing loss. (NIDCD (NIH))
- 2 minutes at 110 dBA can damage your hearing (NIDCD, “How Loud Is Too Loud?”). (NIDCD (NIH))
How much of your daily limit does 110 dBA use?
| Time at 110 dBA | NIOSH dose | OSHA dose |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 1,008% | 50% |
| 30 minutes | 2,016% | 100% |
| 1 hour | 4,032% | 200% |
| 2 hours | 8,063% | 400% |
| 4 hours | over 10,000% | 800% |
| 8 hours | over 10,000% | 1,600% |
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.
110 dBA on the decibel scale
110 dBA carries 316 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.
← 100 decibels · All levels · 120 decibels →
Common questions
Is 110 decibels safe?
For a limited time. NIOSH recommends no more than 1 min 29 s a day at 110 dBA, and OSHA permits 30 min at work.
How long can you listen to 110 decibels?
NIOSH: 1 min 29 s a day. OSHA: 30 min.
What is 110 decibels like?
Around the level of sirens, according to NIDCD (NIH).
Last reviewed 14 November 2026 by Sri Murugan Systems. Found a mistake? Tell us.