Noise Pollution Calculator
Calculate maximum safe exposure time for different noise levels
Noise Level Assessment
Range: 0-200 dB (85+ dB can cause hearing damage)
Exposure Time Assessment
Low risk with time limits
Current Input
NIOSH Standard
(Every 3 dB ↑ = Half exposure time)
Safety Recommendations
- •Use hearing protection for extended exposure
- •Monitor exposure time to prevent hearing damage
NIOSH Exposure Standards
| Noise Level (dB) | Maximum Exposure Time |
|---|---|
| 85 | 8h 0m |
| 88 | 4h 0m |
| 91 | 2h 0m |
| 94 | 1h 0m |
| 97 | 30m 0s |
| 100 | 15m 0s |
| 103 | 7m 30s |
| 106 | 3m 45s |
| 109 | 1m 52s |
| 112 | 56s |
| 115 | 28s |
| 118 | 13s |
| 121 | 7s |
| 124 | 3s |
| 127 | 1s |
| 130 | 0s |
Hearing Protection
Reduce noise by 15-30 dB
Reduce noise by 20-25 dB
Reduce noise by 15-25 dB
Reduce noise by 20-35 dB
Risk Levels
Quick Facts
3 dB Rule:
Every 3 dB increase doubles the sound intensity
Hearing Range:
Humans hear 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz
Pain Threshold:
130 dB causes immediate pain
Understanding Noise Pollution and Hearing Health
What is Noise Pollution?
Noise pollution is unwanted or excessive sound that can have harmful effects on human health and environmental quality. It's one of the most widespread environmental pollutions, yet often overlooked.
How Hearing Damage Occurs
Exposure to loud sounds can damage the tiny hair cells in your inner ear. Once damaged, these cells cannot regenerate, leading to permanent hearing loss. The louder the sound, the less time it takes to cause damage.
Types of Hearing Loss
- •Temporary: Reversible hearing loss that recovers within 24-48 hours
- •Permanent: Irreversible damage to hair cells in the inner ear
NIOSH Standards
This calculator uses standards from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), which are based on extensive scientific research relating noise exposure to hearing loss.
The 3 dB Exchange Rate
NIOSH uses a 3 dB exchange rate, meaning every 3 dB increase in sound level requires the exposure time to be cut in half to maintain the same risk level.
Symptoms of Hearing Damage
- •Ringing in ears (tinnitus)
- •Difficulty hearing conversations
- •Muffled hearing after loud events
- •Need to turn up volume on devices
Important Safety Notes
• These calculations apply to occupational exposure in workplace settings
• Additional recreational noise exposure increases overall risk
• Individual sensitivity to noise varies between people
• Hearing protection reduces but doesn't eliminate all risk
• Regular hearing tests are recommended for high-risk occupations
• Some medications can increase susceptibility to hearing damage
! Medical Disclaimer
This Noise Pollution Calculator provides general guidance based on NIOSH occupational exposure standards but cannot replace professional audiological or medical assessment.
Important considerations:
- Calculations are based on occupational exposure standards and may not account for recreational noise
- Individual susceptibility to hearing damage varies significantly
- Pre-existing hearing conditions may increase risk of further damage
- Some medications can increase noise-induced hearing loss susceptibility
- Hearing protection effectiveness varies based on proper fitting and usage
- Cumulative exposure from multiple sources increases overall risk
- Age-related hearing loss can compound noise-induced damage
This tool is intended for educational and occupational safety purposes. If you experience hearing loss, tinnitus, ear pain, or other auditory symptoms, consult an audiologist or healthcare professional immediately. Regular hearing assessments are recommended for individuals in high-noise occupations.