Workplace Noise Monitoring

Free OSHA compliance tool for safety managers

Monitor workplace noise levels, calculate Time-Weighted Averages, and track dose percentage against OSHA's 90 dBA PEL and 85 dBA action level — all for free in your browser.

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OSHA Noise Exposure Quick Reference

85 dBA

Action Level

When the 8-hour TWA reaches 85 dBA, employers must implement a Hearing Conservation Program including noise monitoring, audiometric testing, hearing protection, training, and recordkeeping.

DecibelPro alerts you with a yellow warning when this threshold is reached.

90 dBA

Permissible Exposure Limit

The PEL is the maximum allowable 8-hour TWA. Above this level, employers must implement engineering controls, administrative controls, or provide hearing protection. Violations can result in fines up to $15,625.

DecibelPro alerts you with a red warning when this threshold is reached.

Read our complete OSHA noise standards guide →

Built for Workplace Safety

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TWA Calculation

Real-time Time-Weighted Average calculation using OSHA's 5 dB exchange rate. See your 8-hour projected exposure at a glance.

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CSV Reports

Export detailed measurement reports with timestamps, peak levels, averages, and compliance status. Use for preliminary documentation.

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Threshold Alerts

Automatic color-coded warnings at 85 dBA (action level) and 90 dBA (PEL). Instant visual feedback when noise levels become hazardous.

High-Noise Industries

An estimated 22 million American workers are exposed to hazardous noise levels each year. These industries have the highest risk:

Manufacturing (85-110 dB)

Stamping presses, grinding, CNC machines, and assembly line operations regularly exceed 90 dB. Workers near punch presses may experience peak levels above 100 dB.

Construction (80-120 dB)

Jackhammers, power saws, pile drivers, and heavy equipment create noise levels that can exceed 100 dB. Variable noise environments make monitoring especially important.

Mining & Quarrying (90-115 dB)

Drilling, blasting, crushing, and conveyor systems in enclosed spaces amplify noise exposure. MSHA has its own noise standards enforced by the Department of Labor.

Entertainment & Hospitality (85-115 dB)

Concert venues, nightclubs, and sports arenas expose workers to levels that can cause permanent hearing damage. Staff often lack hearing protection programs compared to industrial workers.

When to Use Online vs. Hardware Meters

DecibelPro (Free Online)

  • + Preliminary noise surveys
  • + Identifying high-noise areas
  • + Ongoing monitoring & awareness
  • + Employee noise safety training
  • + Quick spot checks
  • - Not for legal compliance documentation

Calibrated Hardware Meter

  • + OSHA compliance documentation
  • + Personal noise dosimetry (TWA)
  • + Legal evidence for citations
  • + Precision environmental assessments
  • + Octave band analysis
  • - Costs $50 to $3,500+
See our top hardware picks →

Start Your Workplace Noise Assessment

Free, instant noise monitoring with OSHA compliance features. No download, no registration.