Hearing News Archives Noisy Toys to Avoid
Noisy Toys to Avoid
By Amanda Womac
Published Dec. 17, 2010
According to the National Institute of Occupational Health and Safety (NIOSH), the standard level for safe noise is 85 decibels (dB). However, some toys on the shelves today ring in at more than 100 dB, well above the set standard.
Because most hearing loss is cumulative, it is important to be aware of personal exposure to loud noises consistently over time. Hearing loss in teens is on the rise because of constant exposure to loud noises over time via iPods and personal listening devices. For children, exposure to toys that make loud noises can also have an impact on their hearing.
Each year, the Sight and Hearing Association and researchers from the University of Minnesota test the noise levels of toys on the market and rate the top 10 noisiest toys in order to help parents combat hearing loss in children. At the top is the Bell Riderz Block Blaster from Bell Sports, Inc. It came in at 129.2 dB, 9.2 dB above the pain threshold for humans.
The second loudest toy on the market, coming in at 119.5 dB, is Mattel's Cars Shake 'N Go Ramone. Hasbro's Transformers Optimus Prime Cyber Sword is number 3 and has a decibel level of 110.1. The complete top 10 list is available at the end of this article.
Help the children in your life protect their hearing this holiday season by keeping the following in mind:
- If you find a toy that seems loud but it’s not on the list, check it out yourself to be sure it operates at a safe noise level. If it’s too loud for you, it’s definitely too loud for your child!
- It’s always a safe bet to opt for toys with volume controls and mute buttons.
- For toys with headphones or earbuds, if you can hear the sounds when sitting near your child, the toy needs to be turned down.
Top 10 Noisiest Toys of 2010:
1. Bell Riderz Block Blaster from Bell Sports, Inc. - 129.2 dB
2. Cars Shake ‘N Go Ramone from Mattel, Inc. - 119.5 dB
3. Transformers Optimus Prime Cyber Sword from Hasbro - 110.1 dB
4. True Heroes Sonic Battle Blasters from Geoffrey, LLC - 110 dB
5. CAT Mini Mover from Toy State Intl Ltd. - 104.8 dB
6. Rocket Boost Iron Man 2 from Hasbro - 103.2 dB
7. Road Rippers Rush & Rescue Fire Truck from Toy State Intl Ltd.-101.6 dB
8. Interaction Morris from Learning Curve Brands, Inc. - 98.7 dB
9. Proto Bat-Bot Figure from Mattel, Inc. - 98.6 dB
10. CAT Honk & Rumble Wheel from Toy State Intl Ltd. - 96.6 dB