Noise Intensity Level & Duration Exposure
NOISE INTENSITY
Evaluating The Risk Of Noise Exposure
The risk of noise to hearing is based upon two factors: noise intensity level (loudness) and the duration of exposure. Noise induced hearing loss has been found to occur with repeated 8 hour exposures of 85 dBA, but shorter exposures to greater levels can be equally as dangerous.
The chart below identifies equivalent noise exposures. Based upon the equal energy law, a doubling of sound energy will result in a 3 dB increase in measured sound level. This 3 dB exchange rate is the recommended method for evaluating the risk of noise exposure. OSHA action levels (which trigger required inclusion in a hearing conservation program) are based upon a 5 dB exchange rate.
Noise Intensity Time Exchange
| Length of Exposure | NIOSH(3 dBExchange Rate) | OSHA(5 dB Exchange Rate) |
|---|---|---|
| 16 hours | 82 | 80 |
| 8 hours | 85 | 85 |
| 4 hours | 88 | 90 |
| 2 hours | 91 | 95 |
| 1 hour | 94 | 100 |
| 30 min | 97 | 105 |
| 15 min | 100 | 110 |
| 7.5 min | 103 | 115 |
| 3.75 min | 106 | 120 |
Examples:
- For determining risk, a 4 hour exposure to 88 dBA is equal to an 8 hour exposure to 85 dBA (3 dB exchange).
- For purposes of OSHA compliance, a 4 hour 90 dBA exposure is equivalent to the required action level of 85 dBA Time Weighted Average (TWA).
