ENVIRONMENTAL NOISE LEVEL ASSESSMENT AND ITS EFFECT ON STAFFWORK PERFORMANCE AND STUDENTS’ COGNITIVE ABILITY ATYABA COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY, NIGERIA

This study assessed environmental noise levels within Yaba College of Technology and examined their effects on staff work performance and students’ cognitive ability. Over the course of 14 days, noise levels were measured at 23 different sites on campus using a digital sound level meter that had been calibrated. Data were gathered in the morning, afternoon, and evening, and 81 respondents comprising staff and students chosen by stratified sampling were given a standardized questionnaire. The World Health Organization's recommended limits of 35 dB(A) for indoor educational contexts and 55 dB(A) for outdoor settings were exceeded by the mean equivalent continuous noise levels (LAeq), which ranged from 63.5 dB (A) to 83.1 dB(A). The loudest noise levels were reported at the Main Gate and Sport Complex. Vehicle traffic, generators, educational activities, social events, and loudspeaker systems were the main sources of noise. Excessive noise exposure was confirmed by statistical analysis, which showed that observed noise levels deviated significantly from WHO norms (p < 0.05). Responses to the questionnaire revealed negative impacts on learning, productivity, communication, and focus. Stress, headaches, hearing problems, and trouble focusing were frequently noted. The study advises acoustic zoning, generator enclosures, traffic control measures, and institutional noise management policies after concluding that the campus acoustic environment is inadequate for the best possible teaching, learning, and work performance.