1
|
Shkembi A, Smith LM, Neitzel RL. Risk perception or hazard perception? Examining misperceptions of miners' personal exposures to noise. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2023; 254:114263. [PMID: 37742520 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2023.114263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
While perceptions of risk have been examined in the workplace to understand safety behavior, hazard perception has been overlooked, particularly for chemical, physical, and biological agents. This study sought to establish the prevalence of one type of mismatch in hazard perception, - noise misperception - among miners, to examine whether different types of noisy environments (e.g., continuous, highly variable, etc.) alter workers' misperception of their noise exposures, and to evaluate whether noise misperception is associated with hearing protection device (HPD) use behavior. In this cross-sectional study across 10 surface mines in the USA, 135 normal-hearing participants were surveyed on their perceptions of exposure to noise at work and were monitored for three shifts, each with personal noise dosimetry, to examine which workers had a mismatch in perceived versus true noise exposure by 8-hr, time-weighted average, NIOSH exposure limits (TWANIOSH). Mixed effects logistic regression and probit Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) models examining on the odds of noise misperception associated with four different noise metrics (kurtosis, crest factor, variability, and number of peaks >135 dB) were used to determine which types of noisy environments may influence noise misperception. The relationship between noise misperception and odds of not wearing HPDs during a work shift was further examined. Our findings showed that nearly 1 in 3 workers underestimated their exposure to noise when their true exposure was in fact hazardous (TWANIOSH≥85 dBA) for at least one shift, and 6% misperceived hazardous exposures for all shifts. Work shifts with highly kurtotic noise distributions (>3) had 3.1 (95% CI: 1.1 to 8.4) times significantly higher odds of resulting in misperceived noise; no other noise metric was significantly associated with noise misperception. BKMR modeling provided further evidence that kurtosis dominates this relationship, with an IQR increase in kurtosis significantly associated with 1.68 (95% CI: 1.13 to 2.50) higher odds of noise misperception. Although not statistically significant, misperception of hazardous noise exposure was associated with 3.2 (95% CI: 0.8 to 12.5) times higher odds of not using earplugs during a work shift. Misperception of noise occurs in the workplace, and likely occurs for other physical, chemical, and biological exposures. This hazard misperception may influence risk perceptions and worker behavior and reduce the effectiveness of behavior-related training. Elimination, substitution, or engineering controls of exposures is the best way to prevent hazard misperceptions and exposure-related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abas Shkembi
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| | - Lauren M Smith
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Richard L Neitzel
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Occupational noise exposure of utility workers using task based and full shift measurement comparisons. Heliyon 2022; 8:e09747. [PMID: 35789875 PMCID: PMC9249848 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
|
3
|
Teixeira LR, Pega F, Dzhambov AM, Bortkiewicz A, da Silva DTC, de Andrade CAF, Gadzicka E, Hadkhale K, Iavicoli S, Martínez-Silveira MS, Pawlaczyk-Łuszczyńska M, Rondinone BM, Siedlecka J, Valenti A, Gagliardi D. The effect of occupational exposure to noise on ischaemic heart disease, stroke and hypertension: A systematic review and meta-analysis from the WHO/ILO Joint Estimates of the Work-Related Burden of Disease and Injury. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 154:106387. [PMID: 33612311 PMCID: PMC8204276 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) are developing joint estimates of the work-related burden of disease and injury (WHO/ILO Joint Estimates), with contributions from a large number of individual experts. Evidence from mechanistic data suggests that occupational exposure to noise may cause cardiovascular disease (CVD). In this paper, we present a systematic review and meta-analysis of parameters for estimating the number of deaths and disability-adjusted life years from CVD that are attributable to occupational exposure to noise, for the development of the WHO/ILO Joint Estimates. OBJECTIVES We aimed to systematically review and meta-analyse estimates of the effect of any (high) occupational exposure to noise (≥85 dBA), compared with no (low) occupational exposure to noise (<85 dBA), on the prevalence, incidence and mortality of ischaemic heart disease (IHD), stroke, and hypertension. DATA SOURCES A protocol was developed and published, applying the Navigation Guide as an organizing systematic review framework where feasible. We searched electronic academic databases for potentially relevant records from published and unpublished studies up to 1 April 2019, including International Trials Register, Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, Lilacs, Scopus, Web of Science, and CISDOC. The MEDLINE and Pubmed searches were updated on 31 January 2020. We also searched grey literature databases, Internet search engines and organizational websites; hand-searched reference lists of previous systematic reviews and included study records; and consulted additional experts. STUDY ELIGIBILITY AND CRITERIA We included working-age (≥15 years) workers in the formal and informal economy in any WHO and/or ILO Member State but excluded children (<15 years) and unpaid domestic workers. We included randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, case-control studies and other non-randomized intervention studies with an estimate of the effect of any occupational exposure to noise on CVD prevalence, incidence or mortality, compared with the theoretical minimum risk exposure level (<85 dBA). STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHODS At least two review authors independently screened titles and abstracts against the eligibility criteria at a first stage and full texts of potentially eligible records at a second stage, followed by extraction of data from qualifying studies. We prioritized evidence from cohort studies and combined relative risk estimates using random-effect meta-analysis. To assess the robustness of findings, we conducted sensitivity analyses (leave-one-out meta-analysis and used as alternative fixed effects and inverse-variance heterogeneity estimators). At least two review authors assessed the risk of bias, quality of evidence and strength of evidence, using Navigation Guide tools and approaches adapted to this project. RESULTS Seventeen studies (11 cohort studies, six case-control studies) met the inclusion criteria, comprising a total of 534,688 participants (39,947 or 7.47% females) in 11 countries in three WHO regions (the Americas, Europe, and the Western Pacific). The exposure was generally assessed with dosimetry, sound level meter and/or official or company records. The outcome was most commonly assessed using health records. We are very uncertain (low quality of evidence) about the effect of occupational exposure to noise (≥85 dBA), compared with no occupational exposure to noise (<85 dBA), on: having IHD (0 studies); acquiring IHD (relative risk (RR) 1.29, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.15 to 1.43, two studies, 11,758 participants, I2 0%); dying from IHD (RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.93-1.14, four studies, 198,926 participants, I2 26%); having stroke (0 studies); acquiring stroke (RR 1.11, 95% CI 0.82-1.65, two studies, 170,000 participants, I2 0%); dying from stroke (RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.93-1.12, three studies, 195,539 participants, I2 0%); having hypertension (0 studies); acquiring hypertension (RR 1.07, 95% CI 0.90-1.28, three studies, four estimates, 147,820 participants, I2 52%); and dying from hypertension (0 studies). Data for subgroup analyses were missing. Sensitivity analyses supported the main analyses. CONCLUSIONS For acquiring IHD, we judged the existing body of evidence from human data to provide "limited evidence of harmfulness"; a positive relationship is observed between exposure and outcome where chance, bias, and confounding cannot be ruled out with reasonable confidence. For all other included outcomes, the bodies of evidence were judged as "inadequate evidence of harmfulness". Producing estimates for the burden of CVD attributable to occupational exposure to noise appears to not be evidence-based at this time. PROTOCOL IDENTIFIER 10.1016/j.envint.2018.09.040. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42018092272.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liliane R Teixeira
- Workers' Health and Human Ecology Research Center, National School of Public Health Sergio Arouca, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Frank Pega
- Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Angel M Dzhambov
- Department of Hygiene, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria; Institute for Highway Engineering and Transport Planning, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria.
| | - Alicja Bortkiewicz
- Department of Work Physiology and Ergonomics, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Denise T Correa da Silva
- Workers' Health and Human Ecology Research Center, National School of Public Health Sergio Arouca, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Carlos A F de Andrade
- Department of Epidemiology and Quantitative Methods in Health, National School of Public Health Sergio Arouca, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; School of Medicine, Universidade de Vassouras, Vassouras, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Elzbieta Gadzicka
- Department of Work Physiology and Ergonomics, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Kishor Hadkhale
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland.
| | - Sergio Iavicoli
- Inail, Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Monte Porzio Catone, Rome, Italy.
| | | | | | - Bruna M Rondinone
- Inail, Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Monte Porzio Catone, Rome, Italy.
| | - Jadwiga Siedlecka
- Department of Work Physiology and Ergonomics, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Antonio Valenti
- Inail, Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Monte Porzio Catone, Rome, Italy.
| | - Diana Gagliardi
- Inail, Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Monte Porzio Catone, Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Dobie RA, Clark WW, Kallogjeri D, Spitznagel EL. Exchange Rate and Risk of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Construction Workers. Ann Work Expo Health 2019; 62:1176-1178. [PMID: 30107470 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxy073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Robert A Dobie
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - William W Clark
- Program in Audiology and Communication Sciences, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Dorina Kallogjeri
- Department of Otolaryngology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Edward L Spitznagel
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Roberts BJ, Seixas N, Mukherjee B, Neitzel R. Response to Dobie et al. Letter, 'Exchange Rate and Risk of Noise-induced Hearing Loss in Construction Workers'. Ann Work Expo Health 2018; 62:1179-1181. [PMID: 30346476 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxy085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Noah Seixas
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Bhramar Mukherjee
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Richard Neitzel
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Dzhambov AM, Dimitrova DD. Lifetime exposure to self-reported occupational noise and prevalent rheumatoid arthritis in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2011-2012). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2018; 23:215-221. [PMID: 29557725 DOI: 10.1080/10773525.2018.1451809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Multiple risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have been studied, but there is a dearth of research on occupational noise, which is highly prevalent in the United States (U.S.). This study aimed to determine whether occupational noise exposure was associated with an elevated risk of prevalent RA in the U.S. general population. Data from the 2011 to 2012 cross-sectional, population-based National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were used for secondary analysis. Self-reported lifetime exposure to very loud noise was linked to self-reported doctor-diagnosed RA in a sample of 4192 participants. Weighted logistic regression was used to obtain nationally representative prevalence odds ratios (OR). The main and fully adjusted models yielded OR = 3.98 (95% CI: 1.74, 9.11) and OR = 2.84 (95% CI: 1.23, 6.57) for participants exposed for ≥ 15 years compared to never exposed participants. Excluding those diagnosed with RA more than five years before the interview, the effect dropped to OR = 3.67 (95% CI: 1.06, 12.75) in the main model, and was no longer significant in the fully adjusted model (OR = 2.68, 95% CI: 0.80, 8.96). The only significant effect modifier was race/ethnicity, with higher risk in Non-Hispanic whites. To conclude, long-term occupational noise exposure might be a modifiable risk factor for RA, but currently, the evidence base is very thin and tenuous.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angel M Dzhambov
- a Department of Hygiene and Ecomedicine, Faculty of Public Health , Medical University of Plovdiv , Plovdiv , Bulgaria
| | - Donka D Dimitrova
- b Department of Health Management and Healthcare Economics, Faculty of Public Health , Medical University of Plovdiv , Plovdiv , Bulgaria
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Neitzel RL, Andersson M, Eriksson H, Torén K, Andersson E. Development of a Job Exposure Matrix for Noise in the Swedish Soft Tissue Paper Industry. Ann Work Expo Health 2017; 62:195-209. [DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxx095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
Noise exposure is a common occupational hazard, but has not been sufficiently characterized in paper mills. We developed a job-exposure matrix (JEM) for noise exposure for use in estimating exposures among Swedish soft tissue paper mill workers.
Methods
We used a combination of area and personal dosimetry noise exposure measurements made at four soft tissue paper mills by industry and research staff between 1977 and 2013 to estimate noise exposures by department, location, and job title. We then utilized these estimates, in conjunction with information on process and facility changes and use of hearing protection collected via focus groups, to create a seven-category, semi-quantitative JEM for all departments, locations, and job titles spanning the years 1940–2010.
Results
The results of the 1157 area and personal dosimetry noise measurements indicated that noise levels have generally declined in Swedish paper mills over time, though these changes have been neither uniform nor monotonic within or across the four mills. Focus group results indicated that use of hearing protection has generally increased over time. The noise JEM totals 1917 cells, with each cell representing a unique combination of operation, job title, and single year. We estimated that ~50% of workers at the four mills assessed were exposed at or above the Swedish 8-h average noise exposure limit of an 85 dBA at the conclusion of the study period in 2010.
Conclusions
Our results highlight the continuing need for hearing loss prevention and noise control efforts at these and similar mills, and the completed JEM now represents a tool for use in epidemiological studies of noise-related health outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Lee Neitzel
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Marianne Andersson
- Section of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Helena Eriksson
- Section of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kjell Torén
- Section of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Eva Andersson
- Section of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Dzhambov AM, Dimitrova DD. Self-reported occupational noise may be associated with prevalent chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in the us general population. Noise Health 2017; 19:115-124. [PMID: 28615541 PMCID: PMC5501021 DOI: 10.4103/nah.nah_51_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Occupational noise exposure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are common in the United States, but so far their association has not been explored. Given the neuroimmunological effects of noise, such an association seems plausible. Thus, the present study aimed to explore the association of occupational noise exposure with prevalent COPD in the US general population. Materials and Methods: We used data from the population-based National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) 2014. The cross-sectional association of self-reported duration of exposure to very loud noise during participants’ occupational lifetime with self-reported COPD and emphysema was explored using weighted logistic regression. Results and Discussion: The fully adjusted model yielded odds ratio (OR)≥15 years = 1.68 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.28, 2.21] for COPD and OR≥15 years = 1.61 (95% CI: 1.13, 2.30) for emphysema. Race/ethnicity was a significant effect modifier. In sensitivity analysis with cumulative noise exposure based on a job exposure matrix, we found no effect. Conclusion: In conclusion, we found a relationship between self-reported occupational noise exposure and the risk of prevalent COPD in the US general population, but none with objective noise levels. Being the first study on the subject matter, and given the design limitations, these findings are tentative and should be treated with caution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angel M Dzhambov
- Department of Hygiene and Ecomedicine, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Donka D Dimitrova
- Department of Health Management and Health Economics, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Dzhambov AM, Dimitrova DD. Long-term self-reported exposure to occupational noise is associated with BMI-defined obesity in the US general population. Am J Ind Med 2016; 59:1009-1019. [PMID: 27184515 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence is emerging about the risk of obesity associated with traffic noise. The present study aimed to explore the association between self-reported occupational noise exposure and body mass index (BMI)-defined obesity in the US general population. METHODS This study is based on the 2014 National Health Interview Survey. Information regarding self-reported occupational lifetime noise exposure was linked to self-reported BMI, adjusting for other covariates. RESULTS The multivariate models yielded OR = 1.46 (95% CI: 1.27, 1.68) for obesity, and 0.97 kg/m2 (95% CI: 0.57, 1.36) higher BMI among participants exposed to high level of noise for ≥15 years, in comparison to never exposed participants. Moderation analysis revealed that among those less than 55 years of age noise had significantly stronger adverse effect. Those without cancer and diabetes also experienced stronger adverse effect. CONCLUSIONS Self-reported exposure to occupational noise was associated with increased odds of obesity and continuously measured BMI. Am. J. Ind. Med. 59:1009-1019, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angel Mario Dzhambov
- Faculty of Public Health; Department of Hygiene and Ecomedicine; Medical University of Plovdiv; Plovdiv Bulgaria
| | - Donka Dimitrova Dimitrova
- Faculty of Public Health; Department of Health Management and Health Economics; Medical University of Plovdiv; Plovdiv Bulgaria
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Neitzel RL, Andersson M, Andersson E. Comparison of Multiple Measures of Noise Exposure in Paper Mills. THE ANNALS OF OCCUPATIONAL HYGIENE 2016; 60:581-96. [PMID: 26888889 PMCID: PMC4879593 DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/mew001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Noise exposures are associated with a host of adverse health effects, yet these exposures remain inadequately characterized in many industrial operations, including paper mills. We assessed noise at four paper mills using three measures: (i) personal noise dosimetry, (ii) area noise measurements, and (iii) questionnaire items addressing several different aspects of perceived noise exposure. METHODS We assessed exposures to noise characterized using the three measures and compared the relationships between them. We also estimated the validity of each of the three measures using a novel application of the Method of Triads, which does not appear to have been used previously in the occupational health literature. RESULTS We collected 209 valid dosimetry measurements and collected perceived noise exposure survey items from 170 workers, along with 100 area measurements. We identified exposures in excess of 85 dBA at all mills. The dosimetry and area noise measurements assigned to individual subjects generally showed good agreement, but for some operations within mill, large differences between the two measures were observed, and a substantial fraction of paired measures differed by >5 dB. Perceived noise exposures varied greatly between the mills, particularly for an item related to difficulty speaking in noise. One perceived noise exposure item related to difficulty hearing due to noise showed strong and significant correlations with both dosimetry and area measurements. The Method of Triads analysis showed that dosimetry measures had the highest estimated validity coefficient (0.70), and that the best performing perceived exposure measure had validity that exceeded that of area measurements (0.48 versus 0.40, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Workers in Swedish pulp mills have the potential for exposures to high levels of noise. Our results suggest that, while dosimetry remains the preferred approach to exposure assessment, perceived noise exposures can be used to evaluate potential exposures to noise in epidemiological studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Neitzel
- 1.Department of Environmental Health Sciences and University of Michigan Risk Science Center, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, 6611 SPH I, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA;
| | - Marianne Andersson
- 2.Sahlgrenska Academy, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Eva Andersson
- 2.Sahlgrenska Academy, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Burns KN, Sun K, Fobil JN, Neitzel RL. Heart Rate, Stress, and Occupational Noise Exposure among Electronic Waste Recycling Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:ijerph13010140. [PMID: 26797626 PMCID: PMC4730531 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13010140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Revised: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Electronic waste (e-waste) is a growing occupational and environmental health issue around the globe. E-waste recycling is a green industry of emerging importance, especially in low-and middle-income countries where much of this recycling work is performed, and where many people's livelihoods depend on this work. The occupational health hazards of e-waste recycling have not been adequately explored. We performed a cross-sectional study of noise exposures, heart rate, and perceived stress among e-waste recycling workers at a large e-waste site in Accra, Ghana. We interviewed 57 workers and continuously monitored their individual noise exposures and heart rates for up to 24 h. More than 40% of workers had noise exposures that exceeded recommended occupational (85 dBA) and community (70 dBA) noise exposure limits, and self-reported hearing difficulties were common. Workers also had moderate to high levels of perceived stress as measured via Cohen's Perceived Stress Scale, and reported a variety of symptoms that could indicate cardiovascular disease. Noise exposures were moderately and significantly correlated with heart rate (Spearman's ρ 0.46, p < 0.001). A mixed effects linear regression model indicated that a 1 dB increase in noise exposure was associated with a 0.17 increase in heart rate (p-value = 0.01) even after controlling for work activities, age, smoking, perceived stress, and unfavorable physical working conditions. These findings suggest that occupational and non-occupational noise exposure is associated with elevations in average heart rate, which may in turn predict potential cardiovascular damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katrina N Burns
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights 6611 SPH I, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Kan Sun
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights 6611 SPH I, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Julius N Fobil
- Department of Biological, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Ghana-Legon, P.O. Box LG 13, Legon, Ghana.
| | - Richard L Neitzel
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights 6611 SPH I, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kheirbek I, Ito K, Neitzel R, Kim J, Johnson S, Ross Z, Eisl H, Matte T. Spatial variation in environmental noise and air pollution in New York City. J Urban Health 2014; 91:415-31. [PMID: 24488652 PMCID: PMC4074330 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-013-9857-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to environmental noise from traffic is common in urban areas and has been linked to increased risks of adverse health effects including cardiovascular disease. Because traffic sources also produce air pollutants that increase the risk of cardiovascular morbidity, associations between traffic exposures and health outcomes may involve confounding and/or synergisms between air pollution and noise. While prior studies have characterized intraurban spatial variation in air pollution in New York City (NYC), limited data exists on the levels and spatial variation in noise levels. We measured 1-week equivalent continuous sound pressure levels (Leq) at 56 sites during the fall of 2012 across NYC locations with varying traffic intensity and building density that are routinely monitored for combustion-related air pollutants. We evaluated correlations among several noise metrics used to characterize noise exposures, including Leq during different time periods (night, day, weekday, weekend), Ldn (day-night noise), and measures of intermittent noise defined as the ratio of peak levels to median and background levels. We also examined correlations between sound pressure levels and co-located simultaneous measures of nitric oxide (NO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), fine particulate matter (PM2.5), and black carbon (BC) as well as estimates of traffic and building density around the monitoring sites. Noise levels varied widely across the 56 monitoring sites; 1-week Leq varied by 21.6 dBA (range 59.1-80.7 dBA) with the highest levels observed during the weekday, daytime hours. Indices of average noise were well correlated with each other (r > 0.83), while indices of intermittent noise were not well correlated with average noise levels (r < 0.41). One-week Leq correlated well with NO, NO2, and EC levels (r = 0.61 to 0.68) and less so with PM2.5 levels (r = 0.45). We observed associations between 1-week noise levels and traffic intensity within 100 m of the monitoring sites (r = 0.58). The high levels of noise observed in NYC often exceed recommended guidelines for outdoor and personal exposures, suggesting unhealthy levels in many locations. Associations between noise, traffic, and combustion air pollutants suggest the possibility for confounding and/or synergism in intraurban epidemiological studies of traffic-related health effects. The different spatial pattern of intermittent noise compared to average noise level may suggest different sources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iyad Kheirbek
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Bureau of Environmental Surveillance and Policy, 125 Worth Street, CN34E, New York, NY, 10013, USA,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Neitzel RL, Galusha D, Dixon-Ernst C, Rabinowitz PM. Methods for evaluating temporal trends in noise exposure. Int J Audiol 2014; 53 Suppl 2:S76-83. [PMID: 24564696 DOI: 10.3109/14992027.2013.857438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hearing conservation programs have been mandatory in many US industries since 1983. Since then, three program elements (audiometric testing, hearing protection, and training) have been the focus of much research. By comparison, little has been done on noise exposure evaluation. DESIGN Temporal trends in time weighted average (TWA) exposures and the fraction of measurements exceeding 85 dBA were evaluated by facility, by exposure group within facility, and by individual worker within facility. STUDY SAMPLE A large dataset (> 10 000 measurements over 20 years) from eight facilities operated by a multinational aluminum manufacturing company was studied. RESULTS Overall, exposures declined across locations over the study period. Several facilities demonstrated substantial reductions in exposure, and the results of mean noise levels and exceedance fractions generally showed good agreement. The results of analyses at the individual level diverged with analyses by facility and exposure group within facility, suggesting that individual-level analyses, while challenging, may provide important information not available from coarser levels of analysis. CONCLUSIONS Validated metrics are needed to allow for assessment of temporal trends in noise exposure. Such metrics will improve our ability to characterize, in a standardized manner, efforts to reduce noise-induced hearing loss.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R L Neitzel
- * Department of Environmental Health Sciences and Risk Science Center, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Viet SM, Dellarco M, Dearborn DG, Neitzel R. Assessment of Noise Exposure to Children: Considerations for the National Children's Study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 1. [PMID: 25866843 DOI: 10.4172/2376-127x.1000105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Evidence has been accruing to indicate that young children are vulnerable to noise in their physical environment. A literature review identified that, in addition to hearing loss, noise exposure is associated with negative birth outcomes, reduced cognitive function, inability to concentrate, increased psychosocial activation, nervousness, feeling of helplessness, and increased blood pressure in children. While increasing attention has been given to the health effects of noise in children, research about noise exposure is sparse and often the measure of exposure is simply proximity to a noise source. The U.S. National Children's Study (NCS) provides a unique opportunity to investigate noise exposures to pregnant women and children using a number of assessment modalities at different life stages. Measurement of noise levels in homes and other environments, personal dosimetry measurements made over a period of days, and questionnaires addressing sources of noise in the environment, annoyance to noise, perceived noise level, use of head phones and ear buds, noisy activity exposures, and occupational exposures, are planned for evaluation within the NCS Vanguard pilot study. We describe the NCS planned approach to addressing noise exposure assessment in study visits over a child's lifetime.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Dellarco
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Dorr G Dearborn
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Richard Neitzel
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences and Risk Science Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
Agricultural workers have a high risk of occupational injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. However, there are very few standardized tools available to assess safety and health in agricultural operations. Additionally, there are a number of groups of agricultural workers, including Hmong refugees and immigrants, for which virtually no information on safety and health conditions is available. This study developed an observation-based methodology for systematically evaluating occupational health and safety hazards in agriculture, and pilot-tested this on several small-scale Hmong farming operations. Each observation assessed of range of safety and health hazards (e.g., musculoskeletal hazards, dust and pollen, noise, and mechanical hazards), as well as on factors such as type of work area, presence of personal protective equipment, and weather conditions. Thirty-six observations were collected on nine farms. The most common hazards observed were bending at the back and lifting <50 pounds. Use of sharp tools without adequate guarding mechanisms, awkward postures, repetitive hand motions, and lifting >50 pounds were also common. The farming activities observed involved almost no power equipment, and no pesticide or chemical handling was observed. The use of personal protective equipment was uncommon. The results of this assessment agreed well with a parallel study of perceived safety and health hazards among Hmong agricultural workers. This study suggests that small-scale Hmong farming operations involve a variety of hazards, and that occupational health interventions may be warranted in this community. The study also demonstrates the utility of standardized assessment tools and mixed-method approaches to hazard evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R L Neitzel
- a R. L. Neitzel is affiliated with the Department of Environmental Health Sciences and Risk Science Center , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , Michigan , USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Mathiassen SE, Jackson JA, Punnett L. Statistical performance of observational work sampling for assessment of categorical exposure variables: a simulation approach illustrated using PATH data. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 58:294-316. [PMID: 24353010 PMCID: PMC3954517 DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/met063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Observational work sampling is often used in occupational studies to assess categorical biomechanical exposures and occurrence of specific work tasks. The statistical performance of data obtained by work sampling is, however, not well understood, impeding informed measurement strategy design. The purpose of this study was to develop a procedure for assessing the statistical properties of work sampling strategies evaluating categorical exposure variables and to illustrate the usefulness of this procedure to examine bias and precision of exposure estimates from samples of different sizes. Methods: From a parent data set of observations on 10 construction workers performing a single operation, the probabilities were determined for each worker of performing four component tasks and working in four mutually exclusive trunk posture categories (neutral, mild flexion, severe flexion, twisted). Using these probabilities, 5000 simulated data sets were created via probability-based resampling for each of six sampling strategies, ranging from 300 to 4500 observations. For each strategy, mean exposure and exposure variability metrics were calculated at both the operation level and task level and for each metric, bias and precision were assessed across the 5000 simulations. Results: Estimates of exposure variability were substantially more uncertain at all sample sizes than estimates of mean exposures and task proportions. Estimates at small sample sizes were also biased. With only 600 samples, proportions of the different tasks and of working with a neutral trunk posture (the most common) were within 10% of the true target value in at least 80% of all the simulated data sets; rarer exposures required at least 1500 samples. For most task-level mean exposure variables and for all operation-level and task-level estimates of exposure variability, performance was low, even with 4500 samples. In general, the precision of mean exposure estimates did not depend on the exposure variability between workers. Conclusions: The suggested probability-based simulation approach proved to be versatile and generally suitable for assessing bias and precision of data collection strategies using work sampling to estimate categorical data. The approach can be used in both real and hypothetical scenarios, in ergonomics, as well as in other areas of occupational epidemiology and intervention research. The reported statistical properties associated with sample size are likely widely relevant to studies using work sampling to assess categorical variables.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Svend Erik Mathiassen
- 1. Department of Occupational and Public Health Sciences, Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Gävle, Kungsbäcksvägen, SE- 80176 Gävle, Sweden
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Neitzel RL, Hong O, Quinlan P, Hulea R. Pilot task-based assessment of noise levels among firefighters. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF INDUSTRIAL ERGONOMICS 2013; 43:479-486. [PMID: 24443622 PMCID: PMC3891787 DOI: 10.1016/j.ergon.2012.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Over one million American firefighters are routinely exposed to various occupational hazards agents. While efforts have been made to identify and reduce some causes of injuries and illnesses among firefighters, relatively little has been done to evaluate and understand occupational noise exposures in this group. The purpose of this pilot study was to apply a task-based noise exposure assessment methodology to firefighting operations to evaluate potential noise exposure sources, and to use collected task-based noise levels to create noise exposure estimates for evaluation of risk of noise-induced hearing loss by comparison to the 8-hr and 24-hr recommended exposure limits (RELs) for noise of 85 and 80.3 dBA, respectively. METHODS Task-based noise exposures (n=100 measurements) were measured in three different fire departments (a rural department in Southeast Michigan and suburban and urban departments in Northern California). These levels were then combined with time-at-task information collected from firefighters to estimate 8-hr noise exposures for the rural and suburban fire departments (n=6 estimates for each department). Data from 24-hr dosimetry measurements and crude self-reported activity categories from the urban fire department (n=4 measurements) were used to create 24-hr exposure estimates to evaluate the bias associated with the task-based estimates. RESULTS Task-based noise levels were found to range from 82-109 dBA, with the highest levels resulting from use of saws and pneumatic chisels. Some short (e.g., 30 min) sequences of common tasks were found to result in nearly an entire allowable daily exposure. The majority of estimated 8-hr and 24-hr exposures exceeded the relevant recommended exposure limit. Predicted 24-hr exposures showed substantial imprecision in some cases, suggesting the need for increased task specificity. CONCLUSIONS The results indicate potential for overexposure to noise from a variety of firefighting tasks and equipment, and suggest a need for further exposure characterization and additional hearing loss prevention efforts. RELEVANCE TO INDUSTRY Firefighters may be at risk of noise-induced hearing loss, which can affect their fitness for duty and ability to respond effectively to emergencies. The results of this study suggest that additional efforts at hearing loss prevention among firefighters are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- RL Neitzel
- Risk Science Center and Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor MI 48109
- Corresponding author. , Address: Risk Science Center, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor MI 48109 Phone: 734-763-2870, Fax: 734-763-8095
| | - O Hong
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143
| | - P Quinlan
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143
| | - R Hulea
- Office of Regulatory Affairs, Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor MI 48109
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Brueck SE, Prince Panaccio M, Stancescu D, Woskie S, Estill C, Waters M. Noise exposure reconstruction and evaluation of exposure trends in two large automotive plants. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 57:1091-104. [PMID: 23852046 DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/met035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
This study used a task-based approach to reconstruct employee noise exposures at two large automotive manufacturing plants for the period 1970-1989, utilizing historic noise measurement data, work history records, documented changes in plant operations, focus group discussions, structured interviews with long-tenure employees, and task-based job profiles. Task-based job noise exposure profiles were developed in the 1990s when the plants conducted task-based noise monitoring. Under the assumption that tasks and time-at-task profile within jobs did not change over time, these profiles were applied to historic jobs. By linking historic noise exposure measurements to job tasks, this approach allowed task-based reconstructed noise exposure profiles to capture variability of daily noise exposures. Reconstructed noise exposures, along with task-based noise exposure measurements collected at each plant during the 1990s, were analyzed to examine time trends in workplace noise levels and worker noise exposure. Our analysis of noise exposure trends revealed that noise levels for many jobs declined by ≥3 dBA from 1970 to 1998 as operational and equipment changes occurred in the plants and some noise control measures were implemented, but for some jobs, noise levels increased in the mid- to late 1990s, most likely because of an increase in production at that time. Overall, the percentage of workers exposed to noise levels >90 dBA decreased from 95% in 1970 to 54% in 1998 at one of the plants and decreased from 36% in 1970 to ~5% in 1999 at the other plant. These reductions indicate a degree of success for the hearing conservation program. However, the actual number of employees with noise exposure >90 dBA increased because of a substantial increase in the number of production employees, particularly in jobs with high noise levels, which shows a hearing conservation program challenge that companies face during periods of increased production. Future analysis of hearing levels in these plant populations will help determine whether noise level reduction translates into decreased hearing loss at these plants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Scott E Brueck
- Hazard Evaluations and Technical Assistance Branch, Division of Surveillance, Hazard Evaluations and Field Studies, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 4676 Columbia Parkway, MS: R-11, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ham S, Yoon C, Lee E, Lee K, Park D, Chung E, Kim P, Lee B. Task-based exposure assessment of nanoparticles in the workplace. JOURNAL OF NANOPARTICLE RESEARCH 2012; 14:1126. [PMID: 0 DOI: 10.1007/s11051-012-1126-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
|
20
|
Hannula S, Bloigu R, Majamaa K, Sorri M, Mäki-Torkko E. Ear diseases and other risk factors for hearing impairment among adults: an epidemiological study. Int J Audiol 2012; 51:833-40. [PMID: 22934931 DOI: 10.3109/14992027.2012.707334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the prevalence of ear diseases, other otological risk factors potentially affecting hearing, and noise exposure among adults. Furthermore, subject-related factors possibly associated with hearing impairment (HI), i.e. handedness, eye color, and susceptibility to sunburn, were studied. DESIGN A cross-sectional, unscreened, population-based, epidemiological study among adults. STUDY SAMPLE The subjects (n = 850), aged 54-66 years, were randomly sampled from the population register. A questionnaire survey, an otological examination, and pure-tone audiometry were performed. RESULTS Chronic middle-ear disease (both active and inactive) was the most common ear disease with a prevalence of 5.3%, while the prevalence of otosclerosis was 1.3%, and that of Ménière's disease, 0.7%. Noise exposure was reported by 46% of the subjects, and it had no effect on hearing among those with no ear disease or other otological risk factors for HI. Dark eye color and non-susceptibility to sunburn were associated with HI among noise-exposed subjects. CONCLUSIONS Common ear diseases and other otological risk factors constitute a major part of the etiologies of HI among adults. Contrary to previous studies, noise exposure turned out to have only marginal effect on hearing among those with no otological risk factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuli Hannula
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Otorhinolaryngology, University of Oulu, Finland.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Seixas NS, Neitzel R, Stover B, Sheppard L, Feeney P, Mills D, Kujawa S. 10-Year prospective study of noise exposure and hearing damage among construction workers. Occup Environ Med 2012; 69:643-50. [PMID: 22693267 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2011-100578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To characterise the effects of noise exposure, including intermittent and peaky exposure, on hearing damage as assessed by standard pure-tone thresholds and otoacoustic emissions, a longitudinal study was conducted on newly hired construction apprentices and controls over a 10-year period. METHODS Among the 456 subjects recruited at baseline, 316 had at least two (mean 4.6) examinations and were included in this analysis. Annual examinations included hearing threshold levels (HTLs) for air conducted pure tones and distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) amplitudes. Task-based occupational noise exposure levels and recreational exposures were estimated. Linear mixed models were fit for HTLs and DPOAEs at 3, 4 and 6 kHz in relation to time since baseline and average noise level since baseline, while controlling for hearing level at baseline and other risk factors. RESULTS Estimated L(EQ) noise exposures were 87±3.6 dBA among the construction workers. Linear mixed modelling demonstrated significant exposure-related elevations in HTL of about 2-3 dB over a projected 10-year period at 3, 4 or 6 kHz for a 10 dB increase in exposure. The DPOAE models (using L1=40) predicted about 1 dB decrease in emission amplitude over 10 years for a 10 dB increase in exposure. CONCLUSIONS The study provides evidence of noise-induced damage at an average exposure level around the 85 dBA level. The predicted change in HTLs was somewhat higher than would be predicted by standard hearing loss models, after accounting for hearing loss at baseline. Limited evidence for an enhanced effect of high peak component noise was observed, and DPOAEs, although similarly affected, showed no advantage over standard hearing threshold evaluation in detecting effects of noise on the ear and hearing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noah S Seixas
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98115, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Neitzel RL, Gershon RRM, McAlexander TP, Magda LA, Pearson JM. Exposures to transit and other sources of noise among New York City residents. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2012; 46:500-8. [PMID: 22088203 PMCID: PMC4336190 DOI: 10.1021/es2025406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
To evaluate the contributions of common noise sources to total annual noise exposures among urban residents and workers, we estimated exposures associated with five common sources (use of mass transit, occupational and nonoccupational activities, MP3 player and stereo use, and time at home and doing other miscellaneous activities) among a sample of over 4500 individuals in New York City (NYC). We then evaluated the contributions of each source to total noise exposure and also compared our estimated exposures to the recommended 70 dBA annual exposure limit. We found that one in ten transit users had noise exposures in excess of the recommended exposure limit from their transit use alone. When we estimated total annual exposures, 90% of NYC transit users and 87% of nonusers exceeded the recommended limit. MP3 player and stereo use, which represented a small fraction of the total annual hours for each subject on average, was the primary source of exposure among the majority of urban dwellers we evaluated. Our results suggest that the vast majority of urban mass transit riders may be at risk of permanent, irreversible noise-induced hearing loss and that, for many individuals, this risk is driven primarily by exposures other than occupational noise.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Neitzel
- Risk Science Center, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Neitzel RL, Stover B, Seixas NS. Longitudinal assessment of noise exposure in a cohort of construction workers. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 55:906-16. [PMID: 21825303 DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/mer050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To address questions surrounding noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) from variable noise, we have been evaluating noise exposures and changes in hearing in a prospective cohort of construction workers (representing eight trades) and controls. In this paper, we develop and explore several long-term exposure estimates for cohort members. METHODS We followed cohort members between 1999 and 2009 and interviewed them approximately annually to obtain a detailed work history for the previous subject-interval while also collecting tests of hearing sensitivity. Over the same period, we also collected a sample of full-shift average noise measurements and activity information. We used data from these two sources to develop various exposure estimates for each subject for specific subject intervals and for the duration of the study. These estimates included work duration, trade-mean (TM)-equivalent continuous exposure level (L(EQ)), task-based (TB) L(EQ), a hybrid L(EQ) combining TB and subjective information, and an estimate of noise exposure 'peakiness'. RESULTS Of the 456 subjects enrolled in the study, 333 had at least 2 interviews and met several inclusion criteria related to hearing sensitivity. Depending on the metric used, between one-third and three-quarters of 1310 measured full-shift noise exposures exceeded permissible and recommended exposure limits. Hybrid and TB exposure estimates demonstrated much greater variability than TM estimates. Work duration and estimates of exposure peakiness showed poor agreement with average exposures, suggesting that these metrics evaluate different aspects of exposure and may have different predictive value for estimating NIHL. CONCLUSIONS Construction workers in the cohort had subject-interval and study-average exposures which present a substantial potential risk of NIHL. In a subsequent paper, we will use these estimates to evaluate the exposure-response relationship between noise and NIHL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Neitzel
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Neitzel RL, Daniell WE, Sheppard L, Davies HW, Seixas NS. Improving exposure estimates by combining exposure information. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 55:537-47. [PMID: 21467124 DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/mer011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Any exposure estimation technique has inherent strengths and limitations. In an effort to improve exposure estimates, this study developed and evaluated the performance of several hybrid exposure estimates created by combining information from individual assessment techniques. METHODS Construction workers (n = 68) each completed three full-shift noise measurements over 4 months. Three single exposure assessment techniques [trade mean (TM), task-based (TB), and subjective rating (SR)] were used to estimate exposures for each subject. Hybrid techniques were then developed which incorporated the TM, SR, and TB noise exposure estimates via arithmetic mean combination, linear regression combination, and modification of TM and TB estimates using SR information. Exposure estimates from the single and hybrid techniques were compared to subjects' measured exposures to evaluate accuracy. RESULTS Hybrid estimates generally were more accurate than estimates from single techniques. The best-performing hybrid techniques combined TB and SR estimates and resulted in improvements in estimated exposures compared to single techniques. Hybrid estimates were not improved by the inclusion of TM information in this study. CONCLUSIONS Hybrid noise exposure estimates performed better than individual estimates, and in this study, combination of TB and SR estimates using linear regression performed best. The application of hybrid approaches in other contexts will depend upon the exposure of interest and the nature of the individual exposure estimates available.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Neitzel
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, 98195, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|