Prevalence of noise-induced hearing loss among woodworkers in Nepal: a pilot study

Type Journal Article - International journal of occupational and environmental health
Title Prevalence of noise-induced hearing loss among woodworkers in Nepal: a pilot study
Author(s)
Volume 21
Issue 1
Publication (Day/Month/Year) 2015
Page numbers 14-22
URL https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4273515/
Abstract
Background: The woodworking industry represents an important cause of occupational noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), a significant yet underappreciated problem in many developing countries.

Objectives: To describe the prevalence of occupational NIHL among woodworkers in Nepal and measure noise levels at workplaces.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study with 124 woodworkers (88 carpenters, 36 sawyers), recruited through convenience sampling from 26 workplaces. Pure-tone audiometry between the frequencies 0·5 and 8 kHz ascertained participants’ hearing status, and noise readings were taken at selected workplaces.

Results: In all, 31% of carpenters and 44% of sawyers met criteria for NIHL, with 7 and 17% meeting World Health Organization (WHO) criteria for hearing impairment (HI), respectively. Noise levels at various workplaces ranged from 71·2 to 93·9 dBA.

Conclusions: Woodworkers in Nepal are at risk of occupational NIHL. As the industry develops, this problem will likely become more extensive, highlighting the need for workplace interventions and additional research.

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