ASSESSMENT OF AMBIENT NOISE LEVEL AND MICRO-CLIMATIC PARAMETERS AT SELECTED CONSTRUCTION SITES IN OGBA/EGBEMA/NDONI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, RIVERS STATE

Abstract

This study assessed ambient noise levels and micro-climatic parameters at selected construction sites in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA (ONELGA) Rivers State, Nigeria. Three active construction sites located in Ubeta, Obite, and Akabuka/Ubarama were selected based on the intensity of ongoing construction activities. A cross-sectional field design was adopted, and data were collected using a sound level meter to measure noise levels, and an ambient weather meter to record temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and wind direction. Measurements were collected once weekly over a thirteen-week period, after which noise descriptors including LAeq, L10, L90, Lmax, Lmin, Lav and Noise Pollution Level (LNP) were computed. Pearson correlation analysis was used to examine the relationship between noise and micro-climatic variables and to test for significant differences across sites. Findings revealed that all sites exhibited similar noise sources, dominated by heavy-duty machinery, vehicular movements, metal works, power generators, and human activity. Recorded noise levels ranged from 54.2–89.4 dBA across sites, with mean equivalent continuous noise levels of 88.09 dBA at Ubeta, 79.83 dBA at Obite, and 80.52 dBA at Akabuka/Ubarama. These values exceeded FME and WHO 70 dBA permissible limit for industrial/commercial zones. Computed LNP values indicated highly polluted acoustic environments. Correlation analysis showed weak associations between noise and micro-climatic factors, showing that noise levels were influenced more by construction activities than by atmospheric conditions. The study concludes that construction sites in the area expose workers and nearby communities to noise levels above recommended limits, posing risks of hearing damage, stress, and reduced productivity.