ASSESSMENT OF NOISE LEVELS AND HEALTH-RELATED PROBLEMS IN SELECTED HOSPITALS IN ABEOKUTA, NIGERIA

Abstract

Exposure to high noise levels in the hospital reportedly has negative effects on patients' health and reduces the productivity of the workers. This study assessed the noise levels in the various activity areas in some hospitals and their associated health effects in Abeokuta. The noise levels were measured using a digital sound level meter (Smart sensor DSLM). A descriptive cross-sectional survey was also conducted to examine the perception, effects, awareness and mitigation measures of noise among the hospital staff and patients. The observed mean noise levels in decibels (dB) throughout the activity areas in the hospitals ranged from 61.1-76.9dB (FMC), 62.0-74.3dB (SH), 63.4-71.4dB (SHH), 66.0-81.5dB (HC), and 59.0-66.7dB (KPH). The noise level was higher in the outpatient department and exceeded the WHO-recommended average noise levels in hospitals. Annoyance, distraction and stress were the most commonly reported noise effects among staff and patients in all hospitals. There was low awareness of noise effects and poor knowledge of mitigation measures for noise pollution among the respondents. Implementation of training to promote awareness of noise, enforcement and compliance with existing policies on noise prevention and control in healthcare facilities are highly recommended.