Indoor Noise Exposure and Related Health Risks in a Tertiary Institution within Edo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Noise pollution is a problem in many countries around the world. In schools, exposure to noise causes a wide range of adverse effects on the health and performances of students and teachers. This study evaluated indoor noise exposure and related health risks in selected offices, classrooms and laboratories in a tertiary institution within Edo state, Nigeria using a digital sound level meter (Smart Sensor Model AS824). The mean levels of noise in the selected offices, classes and laboratories ranged from 44.1 – 57.9 dB, 52.8- 60.7 9 dB, and 51.1 – 58.4 dB respectively across the Faculty. The mean noise levels all exceeded the WHO and NESREA limits for noise in educational facilities. The level of noise measured in classrooms was significantly higher than those of offices and laboratories in the departments of Computer science (F=4.117; p=0.009), Chemistry (F= 6.41; p = 0.01), and Mathematics (F=3.75; P=0.01). The interactions among students during lectures and operations of office appliances were the most reported sources of high levels of noise in the study area. Stress, fatigue and high blood pressure were mostly identified among students and lecturers as health effects of high noise levels within the Faculty. The planting of trees, installation of sound insulators and awareness creation on the health effects of noise pollution in the institution are strongly recommended.