What sound level corresponds to an alarm activation at 15 db?

An alarm activation at 15 dB is considered too quiet for safety. Sound levels are measured in decibels (dB), and the scale is logarithmic, meaning that an increase of 10 dB represents a tenfold increase in intensity or perceived loudness.

At 15 dB, sounds are at the edge of human hearing, much quieter than normal conversation, which typically starts around 60 dB. Sounds at this level may be akin to whispers or rustling leaves, making it highly unlikely that a person would hear an alarm at this volume, especially in a noisy environment. Therefore, it would not be effective as a warning signal in situations where safety is a concern, as it would not typically capture attention.

In contrast, sound levels categorized as very quiet or moderately loud would still not be adequate for alarming individuals in most settings, while extremely loud levels are typically above 85 dB, making them unsafe for prolonged exposure. Thus, the classification of 15 dB aligns with being too quiet to ensure safety.