Assessment of Noise Level and Distribution from Socotherm Nigeria Limited: Its Health Implications on the Workers

Exposure to noise for a long period of time has been an issue of concern to occupational health workers. This study investigated noise pollution level (NPL) and its spatial distribution in Socotherm Nigeria Limited coating plants and its effects on the health of the workers. Six sampling points were selected on the grounds of intensity of activities. A digital sound level Metre-Extech 407730 was used to measure noise level at the sampling points namely, application area, welding spot, aggregate separator, generator/powerhouse, impingement plant, bushing area. A global positioning system (GPS)-NAVA 300 was used to record the GPS coordinates of the sampling noise hotspots in the factory. The Arc GIS software was used to interpolate the spatial distribution of noise within the factory for the working periods which include morning, afternoon and evening. With a wellconstructed questionnaire, results of the health implication of workers exposure to noise from the factory were recorded. Results revealed that afternoon has the highest noise level of 99.20 dB(A) at welding point and application area conveyor of the factory while the lowest noise was observed at 85.20 dB(A) which was at cold spot of chemical feed area of the factory. The study observed that majority of the machines (noise hotspots) produce noise that was above Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA) permissible noise level. This study therefore recommends that workers be encouraged to use personal protective equipment and be educated regarding noise induced hearing loss and other non-auditory effects of noise exposure. The factories should adopt and implement hearing conservation programs under the direction of an occupational and environmental health professional.