WHAT is a dB(DECIBEL)?
Why is it important to me?
How can I control the dBs I am exposed to?

DECIBEL(LOUDNESS) COMPARISON CHART
Here are some interesting numbers, collected from a variety of sources,
that help one to understand
the volume levels of various sources and
how they can affect our hearing.

Environmental Noise
Weakest sound heard 0dB
Whisper Quiet Library 30dB
Normal conversation (3-5') 60-70dB
Telephone dial tone 80dB
City Traffic (inside car) 85dB
Train whistle at 500', Truck Traffic 90dB
Subway train at 200' 95dB
Level at which sustained exposure may result in hearing loss 90 - 95dB
Power mower at 3' 107dB
Snowmobile, Motorcycle 100dB
Power saw at 3' 110dB
Sandblasting,
LOUD ROCK CONCERT 115dB
Pain begins 125dB
Pneumatic riveter at 4' 125dB
EVEN SHORT TERM EXPOSURE CAN CAUSE PERMANENT DAMAGE-
Loudest recommended exposure WITH HEARING PROTECTION 140dB
Jet engine at 100', Gun Blast 140dB
DEATH OF HEARING TISSUE 180dB
LOUDest sound possible 194dB