In general, noise levels below 85 dBA (decibels) are considered safe, while anything above 85 dBA may cause hearing loss. According to the Center for Hearing and Communication, the volume (dBA) and the length of exposure to the sound will tell you how harmful the noise is. The louder the noise, the less time required before hearing loss will occur.
For reference, 0 decibels is the softest sound a person can hear with normal hearing, while 10 dBA is regular breathing. Rainfall is 50 decibels, while a normal conversation is 60. Beyond the level of safety, at 110, would include something like shouting in someone’s ear, or thunder, at 120 decibels. Want to know more? See the following chart for an inclusive list.