The impact of noise from a polythene nylon production and recycling factory

Creating a friendly workplace which is devoid of pollution is a top priority globally. This study assesses the impact of noise from a polythene nylon production and recycling factory. The HD600 Datalogging Sound Level Meter was used for the assessment of noise within the factory and at twenty-three sampling points outside the factory. A World Health Organization standard questionnaire was also administered to selected respondents within and outside the factory to obtain information on subjective perception of the factory’s noise and its effects on them. The results of the study show that the average background noise in the factory is 49.45 dB(A). The mean noise pollution within the factory is 88.08 dB(A) which is inherently above the permissible limit of 85 dB(A) prescribed by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency in Nigeria. The noise pollution outside the factory ranges from 58 to 81.08 dB(A) and are within permissible limits. A total of 54.90% of the respondents opined that the prevailing noise is high and they have diverse forms of physiological and psychological disorders. Therefore a Class-2 hearing protector and review of work shift period is recommended for workers.