Occupational Noise Exposure and Noise-Induced Hearing Loss among Workers in a Manufacturing Industry in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria

Occupational noise exposure remains a major physical hazard in manufacturing industries, posing significant risks to workers’ hearing health. Hence, the objective of this paper is to evaluate the Occupational Noise Exposure and Noise-Induced Hearing Loss among Workers in a Manufacturing Industry in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria using appropriate standard methods. Results showed that the age distribution shows that most workers(40.0%) are aged 30–39 years, followed by 30.0% aged 40–49, 20.0% aged 20–29, and 10.0% aged 50 and above. This indicates a relatively young and active workforce, suitable for industrial demands but with varying susceptibility to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) based on age and duration of exposure. The workforce is predominantly male (86.7%), with females comprising 13.3% of respondent. most noise levels exceeded the permissible exposure limits (PEL) set by FEPA and NIOSH, with Time-Weighted Average (TWA) values frequently surpassing the 85 dB(A) threshold. Audiometric tests revealed early signs of auditory threshold shifts, particularly among workers with over five years of service, while tinnitus and hearing difficulty were commonly reported. The findings underscore the need for effective noise control measures, regular hearing assessments, and strengthened occupational safety enforcement. Promoting worker education and consistent use of HPDs is essential to prevent Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL). This study provides evidence to support improved hearing conservation strategies in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.