Are Movies Too Loud? Bill Would Limit Theater Noise

Have you ever found yourself covering your ears in a movie theater as the thunderous sound system blasts you endlessly with explosions and other loud noises?

If so, then Connecticut could be the state for you. The state is considering legislation that would restrict movie theater noise. Fox News reports that the measure would prevent theaters from showing a film or preview that exceeded 85 decibels.

The restriction would be in line with what the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recommends for safe working conditions over an 8-hour period.

Stamford resident William Young has pushed for the measure. Young told msn.com that he hoped the proposed legislation was a wakeup call for the film industry: "Why they need such loud sounds is beyond me."

A movie theater sound expert, John Allen, told WPNR that 85 decibels in a movie theater is dialogue-level noise. Allen said the problem is more about noise distortion and sound calibration in the theaters themselves, WNPR reported.

Allen was critical of the legislation, noting "There's no way to enforce it."

Robert Dobie, a professor at the University of Texas and expert in hearing loss, told msn.com that the 85 decibel restriction for workers was for prolonged exposure. Dobie said noise spikes in movies are brief enough that he does not consider them hazardous.