FLOURISH OGHENENYORE AVWARODOGHENE

Noise pollution is an increasingly recognized occupational hazard within healthcare environments, where the continuous operation of medical equipment, alarms, and human activity often generates sound levels exceeding recommended limits. This study investigated noise exposure levels and the prevalence of hearing impairment among hospital workers in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. A comparative cross-sectional approach was employed in two hospitals, the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (public) and Faith Mediplex Hospital (private). Noise measurements were conducted in selected wards via a calibrated AR824 sound level meter, while structured questionnaires and the Hearing Health Quick Test (HHQT®) were administered to 152 staff members to assess auditory and nonauditory effects. The findings revealed that average noise levels ranged between 63.1 dB and 77.7 dB, exceeding the permissible limit of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA). The Pediatrics, Emergency, and COPD wards recorded the highest noise intensities. Statistical analysis revealed significant variation across hospital departments (p < 0.05) but no significant difference between public and private hospitals. Among the respondents, 86.2% exhibited signs of potential hearing problems, 21.7% reported hearing difficulty, and 20.4% reported tinnitus. Nonauditory symptoms such as tiredness (52.6%), poor sleep quality (31.6%), and lack of concentration (38.8%) were also prevalent. The study concluded that hospital workers in Benin city are consistently exposed to hazardous noise levels capable of inducing hearing impairment and related health effects. It recommends regular noise monitoring, staff education, and the enforcement of hearing conservation programs within healthcare facilities.