DETERMINATION OF SAFE ACOUSTIC DISTANCES FOR INSTALLATION OF A 635 kVA SOUND PROOF POWER GENERATOR AT RESIDENTIAL AREAS

Noise from a source like even a sound proof power generator adversely affects the quality of our environment. It is very pertinent to acoustically determine the safe distances for its installation. This work therefore presents the determination of safe acoustic distances for installation of a 635 kVA sound proof power generator at residential areas. Measurements of noise levels with respect to distance, x from the power generator were considered. The data obtained were analysed and residential noise models were developed. The results revealed that the maximum noise level of the generator (i.e. at x = 0 m) was (76.88±0.312) dBA. It was observed that the noise of the generator disturbs people beyond a distance of 70 m. This kind of generator should be installed from a distance of 80 m. This is because at 80m, the noise level of the generator is 52.7 dBA, while the WHO standard is 55 dBA for residential areas. The results obtained from the models developed in this work, LGmodelled were compared with those from the physical measurements, LGmeasured and there wasi nsignificant difference between them. These models are therefore recommended to be used as more reliable tools for environmental noise impact assessments.