The noise pollution and heat stress in different parts of Rabak Cement Factory, White Nile State, Sudan

Mazahir Elhadi Abdallah Mohammed Ali 1, *, Bashir Mohamed Elhassan 2 and Abdelaal Ali Hammad Ali 3

1 Department of Public Health, Applied Medical Sciences, University of King Khalid, KSA.
2 Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Khartoum, Sudan.
3 RAE Company for Environmental Services, Al-Jafr, KSA.
 
Research Article
International Journal of Science and Technology Research Archive, 2022, 02(02), 016–021.
Article DOI: 10.53771/ijstra.2022.2.2.0032
Publication history: 
Received on 24 February 2022; revised on 09 April 2022; accepted on 11 April 2022
 
Abstract: 
Cement industry caused environmental impacts at all stages of the process in the area; include emissions of airborne pollution in the form of dust, gases, noise and vibration. This study is conducted to evaluate the noise pollution and heat stress in different parts of Rabak Cement Factory. The study involved the exposed and unexposed groups. The noise levels were measured by the aid of an occupational health specialist who was familiar with the measuring device instructions and the study protocol. On the other hand, structured questionnaires were used to assess the workers' response to noise pollution in all sections of the factory. Environmental temperature was measured as close as feasible to the work area where the workers are exposed. The measurements were taken from two locations in the factory; the chemical laboratory and kiln in order to determine the heat stress. Some instruments were used to calculating heat stress parameters. Highest noise level was found in compressors 105.33 dB, conveyor belts 101.66 dB, raw materials mills 98.33dB and workshops 97.00 dB. The levels exceeded the maximum permitted noise level described by WHO. There is high temperature in work environment over standard level which may lead to heat stress. For these findings, the company should create a formal noise and heat stress management program.
 
Keywords: 
Noise; Pollution; Heat Stress; Cement Factory
 
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