Examination of Noise and Vibration Levels in Engine Rooms of Nigerian Coastal Tankers

Occupational noise and vibration exposure in marine engine rooms constitutes a recognised health and safety hazard for engineering seafarers. This study examines the noise and vibration levels present in the engine rooms of coastal tankers operating within Nigerian waters and assesses their compliance with occupational health standards. A descriptive field survey design was employed, with noise level measurements conducted using calibrated sound level meters and vibration data collected using portable accelerometers aboard fifteen coastal tankers during regular operating conditions. Readings were compared against the threshold limits prescribed by the International Labour Organization Maritime Labour Convention and the International Organization for Standardization. Crew health questionnaires addressing auditory symptoms and musculoskeletal complaints were administered to sixty-two engine room ratings and officers. Findings reveal that continuous noise levels in engine rooms of older tankers frequently exceed eighty-five decibels, with peak levels during manoeuvrings surpassing one hundred decibels at specific machinery locations. Whole-body vibration levels were elevated on vessels with worn main engine mounts. Over seventy percent of engine room crew reported tinnitus symptoms, and a significant proportion reported chronic lower back pain. Recommendations include mandatory provision of Class A hearing protection, regular audiometric screening for engineering seafarers, implementation of engine mount inspection programmes, and adoption of machinery enclosure panels to reduce noise propagation. Keywords: engine room noise, vibration, coastal tankers, hearing protection, occupational health