Valley Group

Things you never knew you wanted to know about noise.

Sound is measured in decibels (dB). Our ability to hear sound starts at around 15 dB (rustle of leaf) and goes to about 80 dB (loud conversation, printers) in what is considered the safe range. Above 80 dB, sound will damage the ear if the ear is exposed to these higher levels for prolonged periods of time. OSHA has published a guide that combines decibel levels with length of time of exposure to determine when damage to the ear is probable.

Based on exposure time, exposure to even a 90 dB level of noise can cause permanent damage to hearing.

Noise is unwanted sound in the same way a weed is a flower in the wrong place.

Why is noise control important?

There are published guidelines for exposure that are enforced by OSHA, MIOSHA and local municipalities.

Prolonged exposure to noise can damage hearing, resulting is liability suits against employers.

Insurance companies are insisting that companies that they insure implement hearing conservation programs to help reduce employer & insurer liability for loss of hearing.

Loud or irritating noise reduces productivity, creates irritation and stress and can result in accidents.

BRIEF NOISE GLOSSARY

TYPICAL NOISE LEVELS

Rifle shot

150 dB

Jet

140 dB

Hammer

120 dB

Chain saw

105 dB

Plant floor

90 - 110 dB

Mower

95 dB

Loud conversation

80 dB

Traffic

70 dB

Quiet office

60 dB

Whisper

30 dB

Leaf rustle

15 dB