Assessment of Noise Pollution from Power Generating Sets: A Case Study of Nnewi-North L.G.A, Nigeria

Abstract

The assessment of noise pollution caused by emissions from power generating sets in Nnewi, a fast-growing town in Anambra State of Nigeria is presented in this paper. Some areas were randomly selected from the four quarters (i.e. Otolo, Umudim, Nnewichi and Uruagu) of Nnewi North Local Government Area.  Noise level readings were collected for three (3) days, i.e. Monday, Friday and Saturday, during noon (11 am – 1 pm) and evening periods (7 pm – 8 pm) over a space of three months. BAFX Digital Sound Level Meter was used to collect the noise data, whereas the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS-22) was used to analyze the data obtained, using One-Sample T-Test and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test. Results obtained showed that there existed no significant difference between the mean noise levels of the study area and the NESREA standard. However, the mean of noise level readings for noon time (i.e. 53.31 ± 4.68 dBA) were found to be significantly different and less than the mean of noise level readings obtained during the evening period (i.e. 73.82 ± 5.83dBA). The study revealed that evening hours in the study area are generally noisier than the standard limit for noise. In view of the rapidity of urbanization and increasing population in the area, it therefore calls for urgent steps by the government and also environmental managers, to enact policies to enlighten the populace on the need for the adoption of noise-proof (power) generating sets, retrofitted and energy-efficient building strategies such as the use of solar energy and other more environmentally friendly options that will enhance urban liveability.