Decibel Shield
Decibel chart › Approaching subway train
How loud is an approaching subway train?
An approaching subway train measures about 100 dB, roughly as loud as a car horn at 5 m. At 100 dB it is at or above the 85 dB line where hearing damage starts: NIOSH puts the safe limit at about 15 minutes a day. Normal conversation runs about 60 dB for comparison.
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| Decibel level | 100 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | High risk — NIOSH allows about 15 minutes per day at 100 dB |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | About 15 minutes a day |
| Typical setting | city |
Figures sourced to CDC. See the full decibel levels chart for every source.
How an approaching subway train compares
On the decibel scale, 100 dB sits above the 85 dB line where sustained exposure damages hearing. Sounds at a similar level:
- Car horn at 5 m 100 dB
- Jackhammer 100 dB
- Sporting event 94–110 dB
- Motorcycle 95 dB
How loud is an approaching subway train?
An approaching subway train measures about 100 dB, roughly as loud as a car horn at 5 m. At 100 dB it is at or above the 85 dB line where hearing damage starts: NIOSH puts the safe limit at about 15 minutes a day. Normal conversation runs about 60 dB for comparison.
Is an approaching subway train dangerous to hearing?
Yes — at 100 dB, an approaching subway train is loud enough to damage hearing over time. NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 15 minutes a day; use hearing protection beyond that.
Measure it yourself
Decibel levels vary with distance and surroundings. Check the real level where you are with the free online decibel meter — no install, nothing recorded — or see the full decibel levels chart.