Survey of Acoustic Sound in Imo International Cargo Airport Owerri, Imo State

The present study was carried out to assess the level of noise within Sam Mbakwe International cargo airport Owerri. A total number of 16 different locations within the airport operational zones which include the tarmac, Runway, Taxiway, Departure Hall, Arrival Hall, Administrative block, Ticket hall, Checking hall, Control tower, Car park lane 1 - 3, Canteen, International airport road, FANN office and NIMET office were investigated. Physical/acoustic measurements of the airport were carried out through the use of EXTECH 407732 sound level meter on the A-weighting network. Readings were obtained at a fixed distance of 20 m from the two runways for safety purposes. The result revealed that the noise level within the airport vicinity ranges from 53 – 131 dB. The noise level in the airport varied significantly (p>0.05) from one location to another. Whereas the tarmac section of the airport recorded the highest level of noise with 131.6 dB during takeoff and 99.4 dB during landing, departure hall recorded the least noise level with 65.0 and 64.8 dB during the takeoff and landing of the aircraft respectively. The noise levels obtained at most part of the operational units within the airport were found to exceed the allowable limit of 65 dB (A) recommended by WHO and ISO. It is therefore, recommended that Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services (DOSHS) should make every effort to address the high level of noise in the airport. The airport management should ensure the workers are provided with appropriate ear protective gears.