Noise Levels Measurements at Ladipo and Yaba Markets in Lagos and the Adverse Effects on Humans

Abstract

Noise levels at Ladipo market in Mushin Local Government Area and Yaba market in Yaba Local Government Area of Lagos State were measured using a sound level meter (DSM Model 325, 32 dB-130 dB). Readings were taken for five consecutive days (Monday–Friday) at three different locations within each market between 9:30 am and 6:00 pm. At Ladipo market, the noise level (dB) ranged between 67.45 and 98.10, corresponding to the minimum and maximum values, respectively, while at Yaba market, the recorded level of noise (dB) was between 64.70 and 104.50. The mean values obtained from both markets exceeded the recommended safe noise level limit provided by the World Health Organization, thus posing deleterious health risks to people, and particularly traders in such environments.