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A unit of measurement indicating loudness, based on a logarithmic scale. Sound scales are based on either sound pressure level (dB SPL) or hearing level (dB HL). Examples of decibel sounds Whisper inside a quiet library 30 decibels Normal conversation 60-70 Telephone dial tone 80 City traffic from inside a car 85 Lorry traffic 90 Underground train 95 Levels at which sustained exposure may result in hearing loss 90 - 95 decibels Power mower 107 Motorcycle 100 Power saw 110 Sandblasting, loud rock concert 115 Pneumatic riveter 125 Loudest recommended exposure with hearing protection 140 Jet engine, gun blast 140 Hearing tissue dies at 180 (by sicologic.com) |