Assessment of Noise Pollution from Construction Activities in Residential Neighbourhoods of Enugu Metropolis

Construction noise pollution is a significant quality-of-life concern in residential areas of Enugu metropolis, South East Nigeria, where expanding urban development brings construction activities into close proximity with inhabited areas. This study assessed noise levels generated by construction activities at 20 active construction sites in three residential neighbourhoods of Enugu: Independence Layout, GRA, and Trans-Ekulu. Noise measurements were taken at site boundaries and at 10-metre increments up to 100 metres from each site using a calibrated sound level meter during morning, afternoon, and evening activity periods. Measurements were compared against WHO Environmental Noise Guidelines (2018) and the Nigerian Standard NIS 196 for community noise. Resident surveys (n = 100) assessed perceived noise annoyance and health impacts. Results showed that construction noise levels at site boundaries ranged from 78 to 102 dB(A) during peak activity, well above the residential daytime limit of 55 dB(A). Noise levels at 50 metres from sites still exceeded the limit in 70% of measurements. Residents reported sleep disturbance (63%), speech interference (58%), and concentration impairment (71%) attributable to construction noise. Night construction activities were recorded at 35% of sites despite regulatory prohibition. The study recommends strict enforcement of construction hours by the Enugu State Environmental Protection Agency and mandatory noise barriers at sites within 30 metres of residential buildings.

Keywords: construction noise, noise pollution, residential areas, Enugu, sound level