Assessment of Noise Levels in Primary and Secondary Schools in Nnewi, Anambra State

Alison O Ede,Isaiah C Abonyi,Onyinye S Obiagwu,Peter M Eze,Rebecca N Ofili,Ogochukwu M T B Ochiabuto,Monique Okeke

doi:10.29333/ejeph/8425

Alison O Ede, Isaiah C Abonyi + Show 5 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.29333/ejeph/8425

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Abstract

This study was conducted basically to evaluate the noise dB(A) levels in primary and secondary schools within Otolo area of Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria. A total of eight (8) randomly selected schools (four primary and four secondary schools) were assessed. Noise levels in the classrooms and school playgrounds of the schools were measured using a factory-calibrated sound level meter. Results of this study revealed that the noise levels of classrooms and playgrounds of the schools selected for this study were in the range of 78-92 dB(A) and 61-97 dB(A) respectively. These levels were significantly above the World Health Organization’s recommended classroom and outdoor/playground noise levels. This study creates awareness on the implications of noise in schools and learning centers, and also promotes a simple method for regular assessment of the noise levels in these environments.

Highlights

The school is important for the cognitive, creative, and social development of children, and is expected to ensure the best possible conditions for a child’s physical and intellectual development, including control of excess environmental noise (Ana et al, 2009).Children are exposed to many different types of noise while at school
The noise levels of classrooms and playgrounds of the schools selected for this study were in the range of 78-92 dB(A) and 61-97 dB(A) respectively (Figures 1 and 2)
Of the primary schools investigated, the highest noise levels were reported for UNIZIK Nursery/Primary School with values of 92 dB(A) and 95 dB(A) respectively for the classroom and playground

Summary

Introduction

Children are exposed to many different types of noise while at school. For much of the day in a primary school classroom, young children are exposed to the noise of other children producing “classroom babble” at levels typically of around 65 decibels [dB(A)] level, while the typical overall exposure level of a child at primary school has been estimated at around 72 dB(A) (Shield and Dockrell, 2004, 2008). It is generally accepted that all types of noise exposure at school affect children’s learning and academic performance (Shield and Dockrell, 2004, 2008)

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Conclusion