It can be difficult to tell whether noise is too loud for you.

• A change in noise level of 1 dB(A) is almost imperceptible.
• A change of 3 dB(A) halves or doubles the effect of the noise and is registered
• A change of as much as 10 dB(A) is required for the ear to perceive the noise as having been halved or doubled.
• Therefore, the actual load is greater than you think.