At what minimum dB level is impulse noise considered hazardous?

Impulse noise is characterized by a sudden, brief burst of sound that can be much louder than its surrounding environment. The risk of hearing damage from such noise is closely related to its intensity measured in decibels (dB). Impulse noise levels at or above 140 dB are typically considered hazardous because they can cause immediate and significant harm to the auditory system, resulting in conditions such as hearing loss or tinnitus.

Safety guidelines set by organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) indicate that exposure to sounds at this level can exceed the threshold at which damage to the hair cells in the inner ear occurs. Continuous or repeated exposure to impulse noises at or above this intensity can lead to irreversible hearing damage. Thus, recognizing 140 dB as the minimum level for hazardous impulse noise is essential for ensuring hearing protection in environments where such sounds are prevalent.