Occupational Noise Induced Hearing Loss among Dire Dawa Textile Workers
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Date
1995-04
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Although dangerous noise levels have been previously
measured in Ethiopian factories, no studies have
documented the importance of noise-induced hearing loss
(NIHL). This study was designed to assess the prevalence
and risk factors for NIHL i n a Dire Dawa textile mill .
After a random start, a systematic sample of 630
workers were selected from among the 5900 factory
employees. Data were collected through interviews,
otologic examinations, pure tone audiometry and
environmental noise surveys to document noise exposures.
Noise level s as high as 110 dB(A) were detected, with
average of 99. 5±3. 2 dB (A) in the weaving section and
89.0±2.5 dB(A) in the spinning section.
Audiometric tests revealed a 34% overall prevalence
o f NIHL, with a higher rate (71.7% ) among weavers. NIHL
was significantly associated only with level of noise,
duration of exposure, and work section. Those who worked
for 20 years or more had a nearly ten-fold increased risk
of NIHL (OR=9.60, CI=3.40-23.30) Those chronically
exposed to noise level of 90 dB(A) or more had a 14-fold
increased risk of NIHL (OR=14.4 0 , CI=8.20-25 . 12 ) .
Preventive interventions were generally absent, teeth no
employees reporting use of personal protective devices
(PPDs ) . It is recommended that a hearing conservation on
program be promptly implemented .
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Keywords
Occupational Noise Induced Hearing Loss