80 decibels (dBA) is around the level of motorcycles and dirt bikes, according to NIDCD (NIH). The limits barely apply here: NIOSH's rule allows about 25 hours a day at 80 dBA and OSHA's 32 hours, more than a full day.
Sounds around 80 dBA
| Level | Sound | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 74–104 dBA | Movie theater | NIDCD (NIH) |
| 80–110 dBA | Motorcycles and dirt bikes | 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 80 decibels safe?
- Neither NIDCD nor NIOSH makes a statement about this exact level. It is above the 70 dBA level NIDCD calls unlikely to cause hearing loss, and below the 85 dBA level where it says long or repeated exposure can.
How much of your daily limit does 80 dBA use?
| Time at 80 dBA | NIOSH dose | OSHA dose |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 1.0% | 0.8% |
| 30 minutes | 2.0% | 1.6% |
| 1 hour | 3.9% | 3.1% |
| 2 hours | 7.9% | 6.2% |
| 4 hours | 16% | 12% |
| 8 hours | 31% | 25% |
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.
80 dBA on the decibel scale
80 dBA carries 3 times less sound energy than 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.
← 75 decibels · All levels · 85 decibels →
Common questions
Is 80 decibels safe?
Within both limits for a normal day: NIOSH's rule allows about 25 hours and OSHA's 32 hours at 80 dBA. NIDCD makes no statement about 80 dBA itself.
How long can you listen to 80 decibels?
NIOSH: over 24 h a day. OSHA: over 24 h.
What is 80 decibels like?
Around the level of motorcycles and dirt bikes, according to NIDCD (NIH).
Last reviewed 14 November 2026 by Sri Murugan Systems. Found a mistake? Tell us.