Determination of Acoustic Sound Level in Swali Market Environment

Abstract

Abstract : This study assessed the levels of environmental noise pollution in Swali Market, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, with the aim of comparing measured noise levels against national and international permissible limits. Field measurements were conducted across multiple monitoring points within the market, and parameters such as maximum noise level (Lmax), minimum noise level (Lmin), equivalent continuous equal energy level (Leq), average noise level (Lavg), and noise pollution level (Lnp) were determined. Results indicated that noise levels at all monitoring points consistently exceeded the Federal Ministry of Environment (FMEnv), National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), and World Health Organization (WHO) permissible exposure limits of 75 dB(A) and 70 dB(A) for commercial environments. The computed average Leq of 114.4 ± 2.3 dB(A) exceeded NESREA and WHO standards by 60.1% and 71.8%, respectively, ranking very high by regulatory benchmarks. Findings revealed that noise values were highest in the fish/yam market and slaughter areas, with maximum values of 85.0 dB(A) and 84.0 dB(A), respectively. Cumulative noise levels for all monitoring points similarly surpassed stipulated limits. Prolonged exposure to such elevated noise levels is hazardous and may result in hearing impairment, stress-related conditions, sleep disturbance, and reduced overall well-being, especially among traders who spend up to 12 hours daily in the market. These findings corroborate earlier studies in Port Harcourt and Abuja, which reported high and unsatisfactory noise levels in market environments. The study concludes that Swali Market is subject to critical noise pollution that constitutes a significant public health risk. It is recommended that noise mitigation strategies, including public health education, noise zoning, and enforcement of regulatory standards, be urgently implemented to safeguard traders, customers, and the surrounding community.