Understanding Noise Levels
Noise is measured in decibels (dB). Because the scale is logarithmic, a sound of 100dB is actually 10 times more intense than a sound of 90dB. Protecting your ears from prolonged exposure to high levels is critical for preventing permanent hearing loss.
| Level (dB) | Real World Example | Safety Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 30 - 50 dB | Whisper, Quiet Library | ✅ Safe indefinitely |
| 60 - 70 dB | Normal Conversation, Vacuum Cleaner | ✅ Safe indefinitely |
| 80 - 85 dB | Heavy Traffic, Alarm Clock | ⚠️ Limit: 8 hours (OSHA) |
| 90 - 100 dB | Motorcycle, Lawn Mower | ⛔ Limit: 1 hour |
| 110+ dB | Rock Concert, Jet Engine | ⛔ Dangerous (Immediate Risk) |
How to Measure Accurate Results
- Remove Phone Cases: If on mobile, remove your phone case. Thick cases can block the microphone and lower readings by 5-10dB.
- Direct Line of Sight: Point the microphone directly at the sound source.
- Silence Backgrounds: Turn off fans or AC units to establish a "Noise Floor" baseline before measuring the target sound.
FAQ
Why does it max out at 100dB?
Most consumer microphones (laptops/phones) have a hardware limit around 100-105dB to prevent clipping. They physically cannot measure sounds louder than this.
Is this accurate enough for work safety?
No. For legal OSHA compliance, you must use a Class 2 calibrated SPL meter. This tool is intended for estimation and educational use only.