Effects of Noise on Urban Social Environmental Health in Kampala City: A Case Study of Selected Points in Kawempe Division

Abstract

In this research, an assessment of the effects of noise on urban social environment within areas of Kawempe Division in Kampala City using sampled hotspot areas was done. Areas with schools, hospitals and places of high pedestrian traffic were chosen to establish the amount of noise and social environment impact. Extech HD 600 Noise meters and Garmin GPS machines were used for data collection and geographical mapping respectively. This research was aimed at acquiring data on noise and identifying or classifying it on whether it was noise pollution or not using Uganda noise regulations limits. Noise data was collected at 10 sampling sites spread randomly across the study area for the whole day for a period of 4 days. Data was also collected from 3 sites (located ≈100m) and separately averaged for noise measured for 15 minutes in morning, afternoon and 15 in the evening to determine noise daily variation. This data was collected on the A-weighted scale of decibels and was recorded every 0.5 seconds in each in measurements. Data was also collected on social perceptions of the population to determine how they are affected by noise. The data was also analyzed to determine the extent of compliance of the population to the Noise Regulations and community perceptions on effects of the noise. Noise averages of 69.9 dB(A), 67.76 dB(A) and 70.46 dB(A) were recorded for morning, afternoon and evening respectively. The noise data recorded throughout the day was above the standards set in the National Regulations of 55 dB(A) for day time (Day- 6.00 a.m. -10.00 p.m) for the general environment. A larger number (87.5%) of respondents of respondents named cars as the main source of noise in the area. In the questionnaire's assessment of the public's responses to noise, the primary impacts on the population were headaches (27.5%) and a lack of concentration (32.5%) The compliance to the regulations was assessed and there was a low level of compliance. This exposed people in their workplaces and homes to noise pollution which is harmful to their physiological and psychological well-being.