Let’s start with a general rule of thumb: Sound at or less than 70 decibels (dB) is safe for our hearing. For instance, a regular conversation between two people is in the 70 dB range.
On the other hand, sound at or greater than 80-85 dB causes hearing damage. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires workers to wear hearing protection when sound levels exceed 85 dB. Heavy vehicle traffic heard from inside a car is roughly 85 dB.
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Decibels, a measure of sound energy
Sound is measured in decibels (dB), a measure of sound energy.
Here's the key to understanding decibels: Every 10 dB increase in loudness is twice as loud to the human ear.
A simple way to gauge sound level: If you need to raise your voice to speak to someone standing three feet away, the sound level is 85 dB or greater — the OSHA standard for hearing protection.
► Download your sound-level scale
Prevent headphone and earbud damage
Headphones and earbuds can reach 100 dB or more, a volume that will cause hearing damage in 15 minutes. Turn them to approximately 50 percent of their maximum volume to protect your hearing from permanent damage.
Need help with your hearing?
A great way to start is with a free, 15-minute hearing screening performed by an audiologist. It’s easy to find out if you have hearing loss. So don’t guess. Find out.
After all, hearing loss is a modifiable risk factor for dementia.
If you have hearing loss, your audiologist will explain
- How much hearing you’ve lost
- Whether your hearing needs treating now or later
- How hearing aids mitigate the top four risks of social isolation, poor balance, faster cognitive decline, and dementia.
Crest Hill: 630-633-5060 | Palos Hills: 708-599-9500
