Professional Investigation of Noise Emission Levels from Industrial Generators in Selected Commercial Zones of Abuja FCT

The widespread use of diesel generators as primary or backup power sources in Nigerian commercial and industrial premises contributes substantially to urban noise pollution and poses occupational hearing health risks for nearby workers. This study professionally investigates noise emission levels from diesel generators in operation at commercial premises in three zoning districts of Abuja Federal Capital Territory, North Central Nigeria. Sound level measurements were conducted using a calibrated Class 1 precision sound level meter at distances of 1 m, 5 m, 10 m, and 25 m from 45 generator installations, with metadata recorded on generator rated capacity, enclosure type, and operational hours. Measurements were conducted during morning and afternoon business periods, and both equivalent continuous A-weighted sound levels and peak sound pressure levels were recorded. Measured noise levels at 1 m from unenclosed generators ranged from 82 dB(A) to 107 dB(A), with the highest values from diesel generators above 50 kVA capacity. At the property boundary 25 m from installed sources, 62 percent of installations exceeded the Abuja Environmental Protection Board permissible limit of 65 dB(A) for commercial zones during daytime. The study evaluates the effectiveness of acoustic enclosures at reducing emission levels and finds a mean insertion loss of 12 dB(A) for compliant enclosures. Professional recommendations address generator enclosure specifications, setback distance requirements, and enforcement mechanisms for Abuja FCT development control regulations. Keywords: noise emission, diesel generator, Abuja FCT, sound level measurement, environmental noise