Comparative Noise and Light Levels

Quick Tips #267

The potential for dangerous noise levels and harmful light levels exists in many day-to-day personal and workplace activities. The following information provides a better understanding of the comparative noise and light levels to a number of locations and applications.

Noise Levels

Home Products, Etc.	Approx. Levels in dB
Mowing the lawn	86
Alarm clock	80
Leaf blower	105
Power tools	90
Outboard motor	110
Snowmobile	90
Car at 60 mph	72
Chain saw	118
Toy cap gun	163
Automobile horn	119
Hunting/shotgun	158
Normal conversation	65
Portable sander	95
Vacuum cleaner	81
Washing machine	75

Industrial/Work Activities	Approx. Levels in dB
Pneumatic riveter	130
Air hammer	100
Spray painting	105
Diesel engine	83
Drop hammer	110
Compressor	94
Punch press	108
Busy big-city traffic	95
Office	40
Jet engine at 1000 feet away	102
Jack hammer	130
Sand blasting	110
Oxygen torch	121

Hearing loss (recordable or reportable) is addressed under OSHA in 29 CFR 1904. According to the OSHA regulation, hearing protectors must be made available to workers exposed at or above the action level of 85 dB. OSHA requires that hearing protectors be provided and worn by employees when:

Noise exposures exceed 90 dB
Employees are exposed to greater than 85 dB and have not yet had a baseline audiogram or have experienced a standard threshold shift (loss of hearing)

Light Levels

Industrial Tasks and Locations	Suggested Foot-Candle*

Factory
Printing industries	100-200
Packing work	100
Exit/entrance	50
Warehouse	20
Assembly line inspection	200
Assembly line	100

Office
Typing	200
Drafting	200
Clerical work	150
Warehouse	20
Corridor	20
Entrance	10

Hospital
Eye inspection	50
Operating room	150
Emergency room	20
Exam room	100
Waiting room	30
Stairs	10

School
Library	150
Lab	150
Auditorium	20
Class room	50
Gymnasium	30
Wash room	20
Stairs	5

* Illumination levels are suggested and intended to be a minimum on the task referenced. To assure these values at all times, higher initial levels should be provided as required per task.

Commonly Asked Questions

Q.		What are three indicators that I might be exposed to too much noise?
A.		Difficulty understanding normal conversation at work with someone two feet away. Prolonged ringing in the ears or other unusual noises after leaving work. Trouble hearing TV or speech, but can hear normally again after a few hours once off the job.

Q.		When can a person begin experiencing hearing pain?
A.		Depending on an individual's hearing sensitivity, a person can begin experiencing hearing pain between 125 and 160 dB.

Q.		When does OSHA require employers to implement a hearing conservation program?
A.		In the United States, whenever employee noise exposures equal or exceed an eight-hour time-weighted average sound level of 85 dB. For more information, see Quick Tips #260: Effective Hearing Conservation Program Elements.

Q.		What are three forms of hearing protection?
A.		Earplugs, earmuffs and hearing bands.

Sources

Pattys Industrial Hygiene & Toxicology, Third Revised Edition, 1978.

Safety Technicians Handbook, Webber Publishing, 1996.

Lab Safety Supply Insights, May 1992 Volume 1, Issue 1.

Plant Engineering, July 18, 1991.

(Rev. 5/2014)

Find even more information you can use to help make informed decisions about the regulatory issues you face in your workplace every day. View all Quick Tips Technical Resources at www.grainger.com/quicktips.

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Please Note:
The information contained in this publication is intended for general information purposes only and is based on information available as of the initial date of publication. No representation is made that the information or references are complete or remain current. This publication is not a substitute for review of the current applicable government regulations and standards specific to your location and business activity, and should not be construed as legal advice or opinion. Readers with specific questions should refer to the applicable standards or consult with an attorney.