Wondering if that jackhammer outside your window is destroying more than the sidewalk? Could be, since jackhammers can reach 130 decibels. Noise under 85 decibels is considered safe for eight hours, while sounds over that level need to be limited.

Check out the intensities of the sounds below. If you’re exposed to the louder sounds for longer than the recommended time limits, consider wearing earplugs. (Actual time limits may vary, depending on the sound.)

10 decibels: Normal breathing.
30 decibels: A soft whisper.
50 decibels: Rainfall.
60 decibels: Normal conversation.
85 decibels: Food processor, handsaw; eight hours.
100 decibels: Motorcycle, 15 minutes.
105 decibels: Snow blower, 4 1/2 minutes.
110 decibels: Power saw, rock concert, baby crying; 1 1/2 minutes.
120 decibels: Ambulance siren, nine seconds.

Sources: League for the Hard of Hearing, and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.