is it too loud?

Maintaining safe sound emission levels has become a standard for OEM engine and vehicle manufacturers. The use of mufflers is, therefore, one of the solutions one must include on each development. But what is the background behind this effort?

Sound pressure is measured in decibels (dB) on a similar scale earthquakes. This means, when the decibels rises, so does the noise. The difference is that 73 decibels, for example, is twice as loud as 70. Some people with very good hearing can hear sounds down to -15 dB. If a sound reaches 85 dB or stronger, it can cause permanent damage. The risk is increased depending on how often and how long an individual is exposed to it. 

Most construction workers loose much of their hearing. A slow process that, most of the times, is hard to notice. Other consequences like tinnitis, a ringing sound in your ears, tiredness, stress and the increase in blood pressure may lead to heart disease.

There are several variables to be considered when talking about the sound levels from heavy-duty & off-road applications. The use of a muffler is necessary, but it does not mean it solves the entire problem. The kind of work the machine does, its environment and external factors increase the final sound level measurements. Efforts have recently been made to include such variables into new regulations. For example, a crane lifting a load can make 96 decibels of noise (working conditions); at rest, if a muffler is installed, it drops to less than 80 decibels  (which complies with existing regulations). Source: http://www.cpwr.com