Noise Pollution Exposure Calculator
Assess your daily noise exposure and potential hearing risk with this research-based calculator.
Note: This calculator uses NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) standards to estimate noise exposure. For hearing concerns, please consult a healthcare professional.
Enter Your Noise Exposures
Your Noise Exposure Assessment
Daily Noise Dose:
Exposure Details:
Total 8-hour TWA (Time-Weighted Average): dB
Recommended Safe Exposure Times:
Hearing Protection Recommendations:
Understanding Noise Pollution & Hearing Health
Noise pollution is unwanted or harmful sound that can negatively affect health and quality of life. Prolonged exposure to loud noises can lead to hearing loss, tinnitus, sleep disturbances, cardiovascular issues, and increased stress levels.
Noise Levels & Risk Categories
Sound is measured in decibels (dB). Here's what different noise levels mean for your hearing:
| Decibel Level | Examples | Potential Effect |
|---|---|---|
| 0-30 dB | Whisper, quiet library | No risk |
| 30-70 dB | Normal conversation, dishwasher | No risk for most people |
| 70-85 dB | City traffic, noisy restaurant | Moderate risk with prolonged exposure |
| 85-100 dB | Lawnmower, power tools, motorcycle | High risk; damage possible within 8 hours |
| 100-120 dB | Rock concert, ambulance siren | Very high risk; damage possible within minutes |
| 120+ dB | Jet engine, gunshot, fireworks | Immediate risk; pain and injury |
Important Note: According to NIOSH guidelines, exposure to noise levels above 85 dB for prolonged periods can cause permanent hearing damage. For every 3 dB increase in sound level, the safe exposure time is cut in half.
Protecting Your Hearing
- Follow the "60/60 rule" when using headphones: no more than 60% volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time.
- Take listening breaks: Give your ears time to recover when exposed to loud environments.
- Keep a safe distance from noise sources like speakers at concerts or events.
- Use hearing protection (earplugs, earmuffs) when exposed to loud noises.
- Download a sound level meter app to monitor noise levels in your environment.
- Consider noise-cancelling headphones instead of turning up the volume to overcome background noise.
Signs of Hearing Damage
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Ringing, buzzing, or humming in the ears (tinnitus)
- Muffled hearing after noise exposure
- Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments
- Need to turn up the volume on devices higher than before
- Pain or discomfort in the ears during or after noise exposure