Measurement and Evaluation of Noise Levels Produced by a Palm Produce Processing Facility with a Maximum Noise Level of 114.69 DBA

This research work presents measurement and evaluation of noise levels produced by a palm produce processing facility with a maximum noise level of 114.69 dBA. The noise level measurements were made using the sound level meter, model WensnWS1361. Distances, x, from 10 m to 150 m from the Processing Facility were maintained using a measuring tape. The background noise levels, LB were taken when the facility was not put to use while, the average noise levels, LAV were taken when the palm produce processing facility was in full operation. The noise levels of the facility, LPP was then calculated from LAV and LB. The data obtained were compared with the WHO safety standards. The results revealed that the adverse effects of the facility covered beyond a distance of 110 m from it. This is because at x=110 m, the sound levels of the facility, LPP=55.90 dBA; instead of the WHO safety standard of 55 dBA for a non-workplace. The average sound levels and the facility noise levels are approximately the same up to a distance of about 140 m away from the facility. This simply means that they have almost the same frequency up to the 140 m. This study recommends that a minimum setback distance of 120 m should be maintained between a palm produce processing facility of this kind and residential or other noise-sensitive areas to minimize adverse noise impacts. It also recommends that workers operating within 60 m of the facility should wear appropriate hearing protection devices, such as earmuffs or earplugs, because noise levels exceed the recommended occupational limit of 85 dBA.

Measurement and evaluation, noise levels, palm produce processing facility

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