Noise exposure calculator for power tools

Enter the noise level of each tool and how long you use it. The calculator adds up your daily noise dose against the NIOSH limit.

Noise exposure calculator

How it works

NIOSH sets a recommended exposure limit of 85 dBA averaged over 8 hours. Every 3 dB increase halves the allowed time. So 88 dBA is allowed for 4 hours, 91 dBA for 2 hours and 100 dBA for 15 minutes. The calculator finds the allowed time T = 480 ÷ 2^((L − 85) ÷ 3) for each level, then adds up actual minutes ÷ allowed minutes. 100% is the full daily dose.

Typical noise levels

TooldBA
Cordless drill80–90
Circular saw100–105
Table saw95–105
Angle grinder95–105
Router95–100
Gas leaf blower (at the ear)95–105
Chain saw105–115
Gas lawn mower85–95
Nail gun (impulse peak higher)90–100

Typical ranges at the operator position. Your tool may differ, so check the manual or measure it with a sound meter app.

Questions

Is OSHA different?

Yes. OSHA’s legal limit for workplaces is 90 dBA with a 5 dB exchange rate (29 CFR 1910.95). NIOSH’s 85 dBA / 3 dB limit is stricter and is the recommended limit for protecting hearing.

Does hearing protection count?

This calculator shows the dose at your ear without protection. Earplugs or earmuffs lower it. Real protection is usually well below the label rating, so NIOSH suggests derating it.

Sources

Injury data for these tools

Grinders, buffers & polishersLaceration40,246Chain sawsLaceration29,535String trimmers & brushcuttersLaceration16,067Nail gunsPuncture10,860Hedge trimmersLaceration10,021Leaf blowersFracture7,366

ER visits in 2025

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