Table 1.

Noise levels

QualityPeak Intensity, dBAExample2Inside Incubator41Effect
Just audible10Heartbeat
Very quiet20–30Whisper<35 dBA desired for sleep
Quiet40Average home
50Light trafficBackground<50 dBA desired for work
Moderately loud60Normal conversationMotor on and off
70Vacuum cleanerBubbling in ventilator tubingAnnoyance
Loud80Heavy trafficTapping incubator with fingers
Telephone ringing
90Pneumatic drillClosing the metal cabinet doors under the incubatorHearing loss with persistent exposure
Very loud100Power mowerClosing solid plastic porthole
Uncomfortably loud120Boom box in car44Dropping the head of the mattressPain and distress
140Jet plane 30 m overhead