Geo-Spatial Analysis of Noise Levels in a University Community (Published)
Noise is identified as a disturbance that could induce different behavioural responses. Its exposure for a long period of time has been an issue of concern. Increasing noise levels is not unusual especially with booming developments and innovations in the University environment. This study investigated noise pollution level (NPL) and its spatial distribution within the Campus of Federal University of Technology, Owerri Nigeria. A digital sound level meter-Extech 407730 was used to measure noise level at the sampling points namely, Student affairs unit, SEET head round-about, School park, Senate round-about and FUTO market designated as SP1,SP2,SP3,SP4 and SP5 respectively. A global positioning system (GPS)-NAVA 300 was used to record the GPS coordinates of the sampling noise hotspots in the university community. The Arc GIS software was used to assess the geospatial mapping and distribution of noise within the study areas. Results revealed that the noise levels in the school campus reached a peak of 75.7dB (A) in FUTO market on day 4 during the hours of 12pm – 1pm. Results of geospatial mapping of the noise level in the study area also revealed that noise level exceeds the maximum permissible limit ranging from 40dB(A) to 50dB(A). Therefore, it was recommended that public enlightenment programs such as workshops and seminars on the health hazards connected with noise pollution within the campus should be held regularly, also, control of noise through the use of sound proof doors, walls, and ceilings that can be installed while erecting buildings within the university community.
Keywords: Noise Pollution, geo-spatial analysis, permissible level, university community