150 decibels (dBA) is around the level of a fireworks show, according to NIDCD (NIH). NIOSH's 3 dBA rule leaves less than 1 s a day at 150 dBA, which is effectively no safe time, and it is beyond OSHA's table, which stops at 115 dBA.
Sounds around 150 dBA
| Level | Sound | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 140–160 dBA | Fireworks show | 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 150 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)
- OSHA limits impulsive or impact noise to 140 dB peak sound pressure level. (OSHA)
How much of your daily limit does 150 dBA use?
| Time at 150 dBA | NIOSH dose | OSHA dose |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | over 10,000% | over 10,000% |
| 30 minutes | over 10,000% | over 10,000% |
| 1 hour | over 10,000% | over 10,000% |
| 2 hours | over 10,000% | over 10,000% |
| 4 hours | over 10,000% | over 10,000% |
| 8 hours | over 10,000% | over 10,000% |
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.
150 dBA on the decibel scale
150 dBA carries 3,162,278 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.
Common questions
Is 150 decibels safe?
For a limited time. NIOSH recommends no more than less than 1 s a day at 150 dBA, which is effectively no safe exposure.
How long can you listen to 150 decibels?
NIOSH: less than 1 s a day, effectively none. OSHA's table of permissible exposures stops at 115 dBA.
What is 150 decibels like?
Around the level of a fireworks show, according to NIDCD (NIH).
Last reviewed 14 November 2026 by Sri Murugan Systems. Found a mistake? Tell us.