Occupational noise has been identified to cause health hazard on workers. Noise pollution annoys, causes hearing loss, and disturbs mental capacity and performance. Noise pollution is becoming increasingly more severe in cities and occupational setting, escalating at such a high rate that it is now considered as a major threat to the quality of human lives. This study aims to evaluate the level of occupational noise exposure, effect of noise Grain Millers and the use of personal protective equipment. The study group included 54 mill operators which include both males and females, from 38 mill shops. Age ranges were between 15 to 58 years. The data was collected using Mini-Sound Level Meter (Risepro HT-80A)and Automatic Digital Electronic Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor (Measupro model BPM-W60). The noise level measurement was taken three times a day on 7 different occasions during active milling The measurement was taken twice a day; before and during work hour for a period of active milling for four months. A semi-structured interviewer questionnaire was conducted to elicit some information from millers such as demographic characteristics, the source of noise, and use of hearing protective device. The study result indicated that the noise exposure level among the grain millers depend on mill operation types such as hulling, grinding and hammer milling and type of machines used for milling activities. Generally, the respondents were exposed to noise pollution above 85 dB(A), with mean value of 102. dB(A) and ranging between 85-116.90 dB(A). Approximately 75% of the respondent experience temporary hearing and tinnitus shortly after work and 92.59% did not have any personal protective device nor hearing protective device. Therefore, there is urgent need for intervention and awareness on the effects of noise on health, and the use of hearing protective devices should be strictly enforced by the appropriate authority.

Keywords: Occupation noise, Hearing impairment, Grain Millers