Noise is measured in decibels (dB). The dB scale is a logarithmic measure of sound intensity. This means that 10dB is 10 times more intense than 1 dB and 20dB is 100 times more intense than 10dB. An increase of 10dB multiplies the sound intensity by a factor of 10. Here are some typical noise level values:
| 130dB | A Jack Hammer at 5ft |
| 120dB | Pain Threshold |
| 110dB | Loud Rock Music |
| 100dB | Walkman at Maximum Level |
| 90dB | Motorway Traffic |
| 80dB | Vacuum Cleaner |
| 70dB | A Noisy Public Place |
| 60dB | Normal Conversation |
| 40dB | Very Soft Music |
| 20dB | Faint Whisper |
| 10dB | Leaves Rustling |