science

[Tom sawyer]

what is safe noise level for human ears?

[tubeway]

Depends on frequency and for how long. Most people find levels above 100-120 dBHL too loud. Any prolonged loud noise can do damage as it destroys the hair cells in the cochlea leading to hearing loss.

[shammydodger]

I work in a noisy environment and am also a health and safety rep for the union and can tell you that, until recently, 80dB was the limit at which companies would have been duty bound to address the issue. I believe that the legislation has changed or is in the process of being changed. I really ought to brush up on this!Tubeway is right, of course, and lower levels are not necessarily "safe" if one is exposed to them for extended periods.

The Health and Safety Executive website will contain more on the current legislation if you are interested.