NOISE levels in fan parks and pubs across the UK peaked at 135dB when Harry Kane netted the winner against DR Congo – the equivalent of a commercial jet taking off.
Data captured across hotspots in Birmingham, London and Manchester found the highest reading was recorded in the Midlands city.
England fans enjoying the match Credit: Michael Leckie/PinPep
Harry Kane’s double against Congo fired England into the Last 16 at the time
Supporters in London also erupted when Kane lashed home the decisive goal in the closing stages, with noise levels reaching 127dB, while celebrations in Manchester peaked at 117dB.
A golden chance missed by sparked huge reactions among supporters, with noise levels hitting 134dB in Birmingham and 131dB in Manchester, according to the data captured by Specsavers.
Another Kane opportunity also generated a peak reading of 135dB in Birmingham.
However, hearing experts have warned supporters that the tournament’s most memorable moments could come with an unexpected consequence ahead of England’s match against on Saturday night.
Supporters erupted when Kane lashed home the decisive goal in the closing stages
Specsavers has partnered with the Night-Time Industries Association (NTIA) to give away limited-edition ‘Cheerplugs’ Credit: Michael Leckie/PinPep
The World Organisation (WHO) classifies sustained exposure above 85dB as potentially harmful, meaning fans exceeded that threshold by 50dB during last week’s match.
Robert Shepheard, a consultant clinical audiologist, said: “The estimates that 1.1 billion young people worldwide are at risk of preventable hearing loss – and moments like this week’s match are a reminder of just how quickly noise exposure adds up.
“At 135dB, the kind of levels we recorded when England scored, you are in territory where repeated exposure over a tournament can begin to affect your hearing.”
Specsavers has partnered with the Night-Time Industries Association (NTIA), the trade body representing the UK’s clubs, bars and , to give away limited-edition ‘Cheerplugs’.
Fans watched on agonisingly before Kane’s double sparked a turnaround Credit: Michael Leckie/PinPep
The specially rebranded high-fidelity earplugs are designed to allow fans to hear every commentary call, chant and celebration while helping protect their hearing from prolonged exposure to loud environments.
Gordon Harrison, chief audiologist at Specsavers, said: “Nothing beats the sound of a packed pub when your team scores.
“The chants, the celebrations and those unforgettable last-minute moments are all part of what makes tournament so special.
“But just like players look after themselves across a long tournament, fans should think about protecting their hearing too.
“Cheerplugs mean you don’t have to choose between soaking up the atmosphere and looking after your hearing health.”
The findings also highlight the importance of the industry-backed Listen for Life campaign, which encourages consumers and businesses to take a more proactive approach to hearing health.
The campaign aims to raise awareness of the long-term impact excessive noise exposure can have on hearing health, while helping people enjoy live sport, music and other events more safely.
By promoting simple preventative measures and greater understanding of hearing health, Listen for Life hopes to encourage lifelong listening habits that protect audiences without diminishing the live experience.
Mike Kill, CEO of the NTIA, said: “We want those who enjoy the atmosphere of watching the game in public spaces to experience every moment while also protecting their hearing.
“Through our unique Listen for Life initiative, we’re giving cheering fans the knowledge and practical tools they need to enjoy the excitement safely.
“We’ve seen just how loud these spaces can become, and it’s astonishing.
“Small habits, such as being aware of noise exposure and taking simple steps to protect your hearing, can make a significant difference to your long-term hearing health.”
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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