EVALUATION OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL NOISE LEVELS IN ABUJA MUNICIPALITY USING MOBILE PHONES

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Public Health
• Acoustics

Background:

• Noise pollution negatively impacts human well-being, aggravating chronic illnesses like hypertension.
• Industrialization and technological advancements have increased urban noise pollution, necessitating environmental monitoring and regulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess equivalent noise levels (Leq) in Abuja municipality.
• To promote a simple method for regular environmental Leq assessment.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted in Abuja from January 2014 to January 2016.
• Environmental Leq was measured using mobile phone software validated with a digital sound level meter across residential, business, and market areas.
• Measurements were taken at various points and times of day and night, with data classified by locality and compared to WHO standards.

Main Results:

• Daytime Leq(A) levels ranged from 71-92dB(A) in business/parks, 42-79dB(A) in residential areas, and 69-90dB(A) in markets.
• Nighttime noise levels were generally satisfactory (18dB(A)-56dB(A)).
• Day-night Leq(A) averaged 77.2dB(A) in residential zones and 90.4dB(A) in business zones.

Conclusions:

• While nighttime noise levels are satisfactory, daytime and day-night noise levels in Abuja exceed WHO recommended safety values.
• Urgent public awareness campaigns and legislative regulations are required to address excessive noise pollution.