120 decibels (dBA) is around the level of sirens, according to NIDCD (NIH). NIOSH's 3 dBA rule leaves 9 s a day at 120 dBA, which is effectively no safe time, and it is beyond OSHA's table, which stops at 115 dBA.
Sounds around 120 dBA
| Level | Sound | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 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 120 decibels safe?
- Long or repeated exposure to sounds at or above 85 dBA can cause hearing loss. (NIDCD (NIH))
- OSHA's table of permissible exposures stops at 115 dBA, for a quarter of an hour or less. (OSHA)
How much of your daily limit does 120 dBA use?
| Time at 120 dBA | NIOSH dose | OSHA dose |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | over 10,000% | 200% |
| 30 minutes | over 10,000% | 400% |
| 1 hour | over 10,000% | 800% |
| 2 hours | over 10,000% | 1,600% |
| 4 hours | over 10,000% | 3,200% |
| 8 hours | over 10,000% | 6,400% |
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.
At this level the dose figures are so large that the practical advice is simply to avoid unprotected exposure.
120 dBA on the decibel scale
120 dBA carries 3,162 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.
← 110 decibels · All levels · 150 decibels →
Common questions
Is 120 decibels safe?
For a limited time. NIOSH recommends no more than 9 s a day at 120 dBA, which is effectively no safe exposure.
How long can you listen to 120 decibels?
NIOSH: 9 s a day, effectively none. OSHA's table of permissible exposures stops at 115 dBA.
What is 120 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.