What sound level is often required for alarms to be effective in alerting individuals?

For alarms to effectively alert individuals, a sound level of around 75 dB is generally considered optimal. This level is loud enough to penetrate common ambient background noise and ensure that individuals can hear the alarm, even in situations where there may be other distractions or sounds present. At this volume, alarms can reach a larger audience and significantly increase the likelihood of a prompt response to the alert.

Alarms that are set at too low a level, such as 50 dB, may not be heard by individuals in noisy environments. Higher levels, such as 90 dB and 110 dB, while potentially more noticeable, can lead to discomfort or even hearing damage if experienced for prolonged periods and may not be necessary for effective alerting under most circumstances. Thus, 75 dB strikes a balance that maximizes effectiveness while minimizing risk to hearing.