A study towards developing systems to reduce noise and dust pollution from maize milling machines

The present work was prompted by general observation and complaints among people staying around Small and Medium Maize Flour Milling Enterprises about the pollution annoyance of noise and maize flour dust produced by the milling machines. The first objective of the study was to assess the effects of dust and noise produced by maize milling machines (SMEs) to the people as well as to the environment in Dar es Salaam region. The second objective was to suggest systems or solutions that could minimize effects of excessive dust and noise to the people and the environment. Methodologies used in achieving the objectives were physical survey and observation of the study areas, questionnaires and interviews, and taking measurements of dust and noise levels in selected areas using scientific equipment. Findings from the study revealed that noise level and emitted dust concentration in most of the milling machines exceeded recommended limits, leading to various effects to the health of workers and neighboring population, and contamination of the environment. It is concluded that noise and dust produced by maize milling machines are serious pollutants to people and the environment. Recommended solutions to minimize this problem include: awareness creation in occupational health and safety among workers, use of personal protective equipment, improvement of house keeping in the plants, location of the plants away from residential areas, enacting of appropriate sectoral laws by the government, and use of more efficient technical systems in plant operations.