90dB

90dB is a measurement of sound intensity expressed in decibels, a logarithmic unit used to describe sound pressure levels. A sound level of 90 decibels is considered loud and can cause discomfort after prolonged exposure. It represents a sound pressure that is about 80,000 times higher than the quietest sounds that the human ear can detect. At 90dB, acoustic energy is high enough that the human threshold of pain may be approached, especially when listening for extended periods. Continuous exposure to 90dB can potentially lead to temporary or permanent hearing loss.

Typical environmental or occupational settings that commonly involve 90dB include heavy traffic, construction sites, manufacturing machinery, open factories, and certain sporting events such as football stadiums. Sound levels from lawnmowers, snowmobiles, and fast-moving trains also frequently reach this level. Many occupational health guidelines recommend individual protective hearing equipment or exposure limits not exceeding 90dB for 8‑hour work shifts. Personal listening devices set above 90dB can damage hearing quickly, particularly if earbuds are inserted deeply.

In addition to noise, 90 dB can be referenced in other domains such as vibration, radio signal strength, or electric power. For example, radio transmission levels might be expressed in decibels relative to one milliwatt (dBm). Despite differing contexts, the decibel unit retains its logarithmic nature across applications, facilitating proportional comparisons such as integrating multiple sound sources or evaluating signal-to-noise ratios. The neutral tone of 90dB as a level allows professionals to standardize safety, engineering, and communication parameters across disciplines.