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Lewkowski K, Heyworth JS, McCausland K, Williams W, Fritschi L. Sources of noise exposure across Australian workplaces: cross-sectional analysis and modelling the impact of a targeted noise-source reduction initiative. Ann Work Expo Health 2024:wxae029. [PMID: 38795381 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxae029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Workplace noise regulations and guidance follow the hierarchy of control model that prioritizes eliminating or reducing noise at its source. OBJECTIVES To determine the main sources of workplace noise exposure in the Australian working population and estimate the reduction of workers exposed over the noise limit (LAeq,8h > 85 dB) if noise levels of specific tools or equipment were reduced by 10 dB. METHODS Information on the tools used and tasks performed during each participant's last working shift was collected from 4,977 workers via telephone survey. Using a predetermined database of task-based noise levels, partial noise exposures (Pa2h) were determined for each noisy activity performed by the workers and their daily noise exposure level (LAeq,8h) was estimated. Partial exposures were categorized into 15 tool/task groups and the tally, average, and sum (Pa2h) for each group were calculated. The impacts of 5 different scenarios that simulated a reduction of 10 dB in noise emissions for specific tool groups were modelled. RESULTS Powered tools and equipment were responsible for 59.3% of all noise exposure (Pa2h); vehicles for 10.6%; mining, refineries, and plant equipment for 5.1%; and manufacturing and food processing for 4.2%. Modelling demonstrated that a 10 dBA noise-level reduction of all powered tools and equipment would lead to a 26.4% (95% confidence interval: 22.7% to 30.3%) reduction of workers with an LAeq,8h > 85 dB. This could represent over 350,000 Australian workers no longer exposed above the workplace limit daily. CONCLUSIONS A universal reduction of 10 dB to power tools and equipment would substantially reduce the future burden of hearing loss, tinnitus, workplace injuries, and other health effects. Initiatives to reduce the noise emissions of specific powered tool groups are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Lewkowski
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, Perth, WA 6012, Australia
| | - Jane S Heyworth
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Clifton Street, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Kahlia McCausland
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, Perth, WA 6012, Australia
| | - Warwick Williams
- National Acoustics Laboratory, 16 University Ave, Macquarie Park, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Lin Fritschi
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, Perth, WA 6012, Australia
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Jeong YH, Jeong SM, Lee WJ, Kim KY. Noise exposure assessment of workers inspecting construction machinery vehicles in the Republic of Korea. Ann Work Expo Health 2024:wxae037. [PMID: 38772380 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxae037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have investigated the health hazards caused by exposure to the noise of heavy equipment used at construction sites. Korea's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport operates a registration system for construction machinery, and regular safety inspections are mandatory. Although workers inspecting construction machinery vehicles are exposed to unwanted noise, no noise exposure assessment has been made regarding these workers in Korea. The time-weighted average (TWA) daily average noise exposure level among construction machinery inspectors at 18 inspection centers was 75.3 dB(A). Among the inspection steps, the exhaust gas inspection step was found to exhibit the highest noise exposure level, up to 100 dB(A). In Korea, if the noise level of a workplace exceeds 85 dB(A) as a TWA, workers are required to undergo special medical examinations. This study found that special medical examinations were required for two of the 18 target inspection centers (approximately 115 workers) as the 8-hour TWA noise level exceeded 85 dB(A). Therefore, regular noise exposure assessment and special medical examinations for noise are required to prevent inspectors from developing hearing disorders due to noise exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeon-Hee Jeong
- Department of Safety Engineering at the Graduate School of Seoul National University of Science and Technology, 232 Gongneung-ro, Nowon-gu, 01811 Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Mo Jeong
- Department of Safety Engineering at the Graduate School of Seoul National University of Science and Technology, 232 Gongneung-ro, Nowon-gu, 01811 Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo-Je Lee
- Department of Safety Engineering at the Graduate School of Seoul National University of Science and Technology, 232 Gongneung-ro, Nowon-gu, 01811 Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Youn Kim
- Department of Safety Engineering at the Graduate School of Seoul National University of Science and Technology, 232 Gongneung-ro, Nowon-gu, 01811 Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Safety Engineering, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, 232 Gongneung-ro, Nowon-gu, 01811 Seoul, Republic of Korea
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3
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Morata TC, Gong W, Tikka C, Samelli AG, Verbeek JH. Hearing protection field attenuation estimation systems and associated training for reducing workers' exposure to noise. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2024; 5:CD015066. [PMID: 38757544 PMCID: PMC11099959 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd015066.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global Burden of Disease studies identify hearing loss as the third leading cause of years lived with a disability. Their estimates point to large societal and individual costs from unaddressed hearing difficulties. Workplace noise is an important modifiable risk factor; if addressed, it could significantly reduce the global burden of disease. In practice, providing hearing protection devices (HPDs) is the most common intervention to reduce noise exposure at work. However, lack of fit of HPDs, especially earplugs, can greatly limit their effectiveness. This may be the case for 40% of users. Testing the fit and providing instructions to improve noise attenuation might be effective. In the past two decades, hearing protection fit-test systems have been developed and evaluated in the field. They are called field attenuation estimation systems. They measure the noise attenuation obtained by individual workers using HPDs. If there is a lack of fit, instruction for better fit is provided, and may lead to better noise attenuation obtained by HPDs. OBJECTIVES To assess: (1) the effects of field attenuation estimation systems and associated training on the noise attenuation obtained by HPDs compared to no instruction or to less instruction in workers exposed to noise; and (2) whether these interventions promote adherence to HPD use. SEARCH METHODS We used CENTRAL, MEDLINE, five other databases, and two trial registers, together with reference checking, citation searching, and contact with study authors to identify studies. We imposed no language or date restrictions. The latest search date was February 2024. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs), cluster-RCTs, controlled before-after studies (CBAs), and interrupted time-series studies (ITSs) exploring HPD fit testing in workers exposed to noise levels of more than 80 A-weighted decibels (or dBA) who use hearing protection devices. The unit 'dBA' reports on the use of a frequency-weighting filter to adjust sound measurement results to better reflect how human ears process sound. The outcome noise attenuation had to be measured either as a personal attenuation rating (PAR), PAR pass rate, or both. PAR pass rate is the percentage of workers who passed a pre-established level of sufficient attenuation from their HPDs, identified on the basis of their individual noise exposure. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed study eligibility, risk of bias, and extracted data. We categorised interventions as fit testing of HPDs with instructions at different levels (no instructions, simple instructions, and extensive instructions). MAIN RESULTS We included three RCTs (756 participants). We did not find any studies that examined whether fit testing and training contributed to hearing protector use, nor any studies that examined whether age, gender, or HPD experience influenced attenuation. We would have included any adverse effects if mentioned by the trial authors, but none reported them. None of the included studies blinded participants; two studies blinded those who delivered the intervention. Effects of fit testing of HPDs with instructions (simple or extensive) versus fit testing of HPDs without instructions Testing the fit of foam and premoulded earplugs accompanied by simple instructions probably does not improve their noise attenuation in the short term after the test (1-month follow-up: mean difference (MD) 1.62 decibels (dB), 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.93 to 4.17; 1 study, 209 participants; 4-month follow-up: MD 0.40 dB, 95% CI -2.28 to 3.08; 1 study, 197 participants; both moderate-certainty evidence). The intervention probably does not improve noise attenuation in the long term (MD 0.15 dB, 95% CI -3.44 to 3.74; 1 study, 103 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Fit testing of premoulded earplugs with extensive instructions on the fit of the earplugs may improve their noise attenuation at the immediate retest when compared to fit testing without instructions (MD 8.34 dB, 95% CI 7.32 to 9.36; 1 study, 100 participants; low-certainty evidence). Effects of fit testing of HPDs with extensive instructions versus fit testing of HPDs with simple instructions Fit testing of foam earplugs with extensive instructions probably improves their attenuation (MD 8.62 dB, 95% CI 6.31 to 10.93; 1 study, 321 participants; moderate-certainty evidence) and also the pass rate of sufficient attenuation (risk ratio (RR) 1.75, 95% CI 1.44 to 2.11; 1 study, 321 participants; moderate-certainty evidence) when compared to fit testing with simple instructions immediately after the test. This is significant because every 3 dB decrease in noise exposure level halves the sound energy entering the ear. No RCTs reported on the long-term effectiveness of the HPD fit testing with extensive instructions. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS HPD fit testing accompanied by simple instructions probably does not improve noise attenuation from foam and premoulded earplugs. Testing the fit of foam and premoulded earplugs with extensive instructions probably improves attenuation and PAR pass rate immediately after the test. The effects of fit testing associated with training to improve attenuation may vary with types of HPDs and training methods. Better-designed trials with larger sample sizes are required to increase the certainty of the evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thais C Morata
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Wei Gong
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Christina Tikka
- School of Medicine, Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Alessandra G Samelli
- Department of Physical Therapy, Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences, and Occupational Therapy, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jos H Verbeek
- Cochrane Work, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Fallah Madvari R, Zare Sakhvidi MJ, Jafari Nodoushan M, Askari J, Fallahzadeh H, Raiszade Dashtaki M. Effect of sound pressure levels on problem-solving abilities with the mediation of personality traits. HEARING, BALANCE AND COMMUNICATION 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/21695717.2022.2142371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rohollah Fallah Madvari
- Occupational Health Research Center, Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mohammad Javad Zare Sakhvidi
- Occupational Health Research Center, Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mahdi Jafari Nodoushan
- Occupational Health Research Center, Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Jafar Askari
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Research Center of Addiction and Behavioral Sciences, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Hossein Fallahzadeh
- Research Center of Prevention and Epidemiology of Non-Communicable Disease, Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Marziye Raiszade Dashtaki
- Occupational Health Research Center, Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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Shkembi A, Smith LM, Bregg S, Neitzel RL. Evaluating Occupational Noise Exposure as a Contributor to Injury Risk among Miners. Ann Work Expo Health 2022; 66:1151-1161. [PMID: 36053031 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxac059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study: (i) assessed the relationship between noise exposure and injury risk, comprehensively adjusting for individual factors, psychosocial stressors, and organizational influences; (ii) determined the relative importance of noise on injuries; (iii) estimated the lowest observed adverse effect level (LOAEL) of noise on injury risk to determine the threshold of noise considered hazardous to injuries; and (iv) quantified the fraction of injuries that could be attributed to hazardous noise exposure. METHODS In this cross-sectional study at 10 US surface mine sites, traditional mixed effects, Poisson regression, and boosted regression tree (BRT) models were run on the number of reported work-related injuries in the last year. The LOAEL of noise on injuries was identified by estimating the percent increase in work-related injuries at different thresholds of noise exposure using a counterfactual estimator through the BRT model. A population attributable fraction (PAF) was quantified with this counterfactual estimator to predict reductions in injuries at the LOAEL. RESULTS Among 18 predictors of work-related injuries, mine site, perceived job safety, age, and sleepiness were the most important predictors. Occupational noise exposure was the seventh most important predictor. The LOAEL of noise for work-related injuries was a full-shift exposure of 88 dBA. Exposure ≥88 dBA was attributed to 20.3% (95% CI: 11.2%, 29.3%) of reported work-related injuries in the last year among the participants. CONCLUSIONS This study further supports hypotheses of a dose-response relationship between occupational noise exposure and work-related injuries, and suggests that exposures ≥88 dBA may increase injury risk in mining.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abas Shkembi
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lauren M Smith
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sandar Bregg
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Michael & Associates, Inc., State College, PA, USA
| | - Richard L Neitzel
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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6
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Nieto-Álvarez R, de la Hoz-Torres ML, Aguilar AJ, Martínez-Aires MD, Ruiz DP. Proposal of Combined Noise and Hand-Arm Vibration Index for Occupational Exposure: Application to a Study Case in the Olive Sector. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14345. [PMID: 36361218 PMCID: PMC9654875 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In many production and industrial sectors, workers are exposed to noise and hand-arm vibrations (HAV). European directives have established the maximum limit values or exposure action values for noise and vibration independently. However, in many cases, workers who endure hand-arm vibration also receive high noise levels. This research suggests a procedure to aid the establishment of precautionary measures for workers with simultaneous exposure to both physical agents. This procedure defines a combined index based on the energy doses for both noise and HAV. From this combined index, the suggested methodology allows a recommended exposure time for workers with simultaneous noise and HAV exposure to be calculated. This methodology can be adapted to tackle the relative importance assigned to both agents according to the safety manager and new knowledge on combined health effects. To test this method, a measurement campaign under real working conditions was conducted with workers from the olive fruit-harvesting sector, where a variety of hand-held machinery is used. The results of the study case show that the suggested procedure can obtain reliable exposure time recommendations for simultaneous noise and HAV exposures and is therefore a useful tool for establishing prevention measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Nieto-Álvarez
- Department of Architectural Graphic Expression and Engineering, University of Granada, Av. Severo Ochoa s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - María L. de la Hoz-Torres
- Department of Building Construction, University of Granada, Av. Severo Ochoa s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Antonio J. Aguilar
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Granada, Av. Severo Ochoa s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | | | - Diego P. Ruiz
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Granada, Av. Severo Ochoa s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
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7
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Shkembi A, Smith LM, Le AB, Neitzel RL. Noise exposure and mental workload: Evaluating the role of multiple noise exposure metrics among surface miners in the US Midwest. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2022; 103:103772. [PMID: 35500524 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2022.103772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This study examined associations between metrics of noise exposure and mental workload. In this cross-sectional study, five occupational noise metrics computed from full-shift dosimetry were evaluated among surface mine workers in the US Midwest. Mental workload was evaluated using a modified, raw NASA-TLX and clustered with a k-means clustering algorithm. Mixed effects logistic regression and Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) was utilized for analysis. Average noise exposure, the difference between peak and mean noise exposure, and the number of peaks >135 dB were each strongly associated with mental workload, while the kurtosis and standard deviation of noise throughout a shift were not. An exposure-response relationship between average noise exposure and mental workload may exist, with elevated risk of high mental workload beginning at 80 dBA. These results suggest that high noise exposure may be an independent risk factor of high mental workload, and impulse events and the difference between the peak and mean noise exposure may have interactive effects with average noise exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abas Shkembi
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Lauren M Smith
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Aurora B Le
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Richard L Neitzel
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.
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8
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Lucas D, Sauvage T, Forestier AS, Pougnet R, Gourier G, Loddé B, Jégaden D. Hearing Impairment in French Merchant Seafarers: Retrospective Study on Data from 8308 Audiometric Tests. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19148796. [PMID: 35886649 PMCID: PMC9317466 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Background: A high level of occupational noise exposure has been noted in the fishing sector. Yet, less is known regarding other navigation groups, such as merchant seafarers, since a French study in the 1980s. This study assesses hearing impairment (HI) in a French merchant seafarers’ population. Methods: We collected data of all audiograms performed in 2018 and 2019 for French merchant seafarers. For each seafarer, hearing ability was measured in both ears using pure-tone audiometry at the following frequencies: 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8 kHz. Hearing threshold levels (HTLs), or the intensity of sound below which no sound is detected, were measured in decibels Sound Pressure Level (dB SPL) at each frequency and recorded in 5 dB increments. For HI, we used the validated definition of the American Speech−Language−Hearing Association (ASHA). Results: We were able to include statistical analysis results of 8308 audiograms. In a multiple logistic regression adjusted for age, experience, and class of navigation, we found that experience of more than 14 years Odds Ratio OR 1.28 (CI 95% 1.07−1.53), age 31−40 OR 2.2 (CI 95% 1.4−3.4), and >40 years OR 14, 3 (IC 95% 9.7−21) and marine engineers OR 1.26 (IC 95% 1.01−1.57) were still risk factors for HI. Conclusion: In 2018, Marine engineers were still the workers’ group with a higher risk of HI in merchant seafarers but, notch at 4 Hz, specific of noise-induced hearing loss, has improved. They have an HI close to the definition of socioacousis and mean deficit differences with deck and services’ merchant seafarers improved. Our results could be interpreted as a limitation of occupational noise exposure impact in a merchant seafarers’ population, needing an improvement in prevention measures and also encouraged to continue to improve onboard working conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Lucas
- Seamen’s Health Service, Ministry of Transport, F-92040 Paris, France;
- French Society of Maritime Medicine Brest, F-29200 Brest, France; (B.L.); (D.J.)
- ORPHY Laboratory, University Brest, F-29200 Brest, France
- Research and Clinical Investigation Unit, Teaching Hospital, F-29200 Brest, France;
- Correspondence: or
| | - Thierry Sauvage
- Seamen’s Health Service, Ministry of Transport, F-92040 Paris, France;
- French Society of Maritime Medicine Brest, F-29200 Brest, France; (B.L.); (D.J.)
| | - Anne Sophie Forestier
- Occupational Diseases Center, Teaching Hospital, F-29200 Brest, France; (A.S.F.); (R.P.)
| | - Richard Pougnet
- Occupational Diseases Center, Teaching Hospital, F-29200 Brest, France; (A.S.F.); (R.P.)
| | - Greta Gourier
- Research and Clinical Investigation Unit, Teaching Hospital, F-29200 Brest, France;
- Occupational Diseases Center, Teaching Hospital, F-29200 Brest, France; (A.S.F.); (R.P.)
| | - Brice Loddé
- French Society of Maritime Medicine Brest, F-29200 Brest, France; (B.L.); (D.J.)
- ORPHY Laboratory, University Brest, F-29200 Brest, France
- Occupational Diseases Center, Teaching Hospital, F-29200 Brest, France; (A.S.F.); (R.P.)
| | - Dominique Jégaden
- French Society of Maritime Medicine Brest, F-29200 Brest, France; (B.L.); (D.J.)
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Shin S, Browning MH, Dzhambov AM. Window Access to Nature Restores: A Virtual Reality Experiment with Greenspace Views, Sounds, and Smells. ECOPSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1089/eco.2021.0032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Seunguk Shin
- Virtual Reality and Nature Lab, Department of Recreation, Sport and Tourism, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Matthew H.E.M. Browning
- Virtual Reality and Nature Lab, Department of Recreation, Sport and Tourism, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Angel M. Dzhambov
- Department of Hygiene, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
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Adjobimey M, Hinson V, Mikponhoué R, Hountohotegbe E, Klikpo E, Mama Cissé I, Adjogou A, Dossougbété V, Campbell JR, Ayélo P, Houinato D. Occupational stress in industry setting in Benin 2019: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269498. [PMID: 35679301 PMCID: PMC9182257 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Occupational stress is a psychosocial risk in the workplace. Working conditions in industrial settings may lead to occupational stress. In Benin, however, there is little epidemiological data on occupational stress in industrial settings. We aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with occupational stress in industrial settings in Benin in 2019.
Methods
This was a prospective, cross-sectional study conducted from January 31 to April 11, 2019, among 15 cotton ginning plants. Sampling was exhaustive for permanent workers and stratified in clusters by shift for occasional cotton gin workers. Data were collected through Karasek and Siegrist questionnaires. Data analysis was performed using R software. Binary multivariable logistic regression was performed. The significance level was p < 0.05.
Results
Of 1883 workers included, 90.8% were male. The median age was 38 years (IQR: 28 years to 49 years). The prevalence of occupational stress was 77.7% (95% CI: 75.8–79.6). Psychological demand was high in 93.0% of workers and 83.9% had low decision latitude. Among the workers, 16.3% had low social support and 89.9% had a low recognition score at work. Factors associated with occupational stress were: being an occasional vs. permanent worker (aOR 6.43, 95% CI 4.18 to 9.88); age less than 38 years (aOR 0.55, 95% CI 0.41 to 0.76); high intensity physical activity at work (aOR 1.33, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.73); working in production vs. administration (aOR 1.59, 95% CI 1.03 to 2.45); spending fewer than 4 years at the current work location (aOR 1.60, 95% CI 1.05 to 2.44); and scoring low for recognition at work (aOR 1.53, 95% CI 1.04 to 2.23). Noise exposure and being a shift worker were significant in univariable analysis, but not multivariable analysis.
Conclusion
Occupational stress is very common among workers in industrial settings. The implementation and evaluation of preventive measures against these risk factors is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mênonli Adjobimey
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences of Cotonou, Cotonou, Benin
- Occupational Health Department of the National University Hospital of Pneumo-Phtisiology of Cotonou, Cotonou, Benin
- Research and Teaching Unit in Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Benin
- Faculty of Health Sciences of Cotonou, University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Littoral, Benin
- * E-mail:
| | - Vikkey Hinson
- Research and Teaching Unit in Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Benin
- Faculty of Health Sciences of Cotonou, University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Littoral, Benin
| | - Rose Mikponhoué
- Research and Teaching Unit in Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Benin
- Faculty of Health Sciences of Cotonou, University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Littoral, Benin
| | - Esdras Hountohotegbe
- Occupational Health Department of the National University Hospital of Pneumo-Phtisiology of Cotonou, Cotonou, Benin
| | - Elvyre Klikpo
- Faculty of Health Sciences of Cotonou, University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Littoral, Benin
| | | | - Amelée Adjogou
- Research and Teaching Unit in Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Benin
| | - Véronique Dossougbété
- Faculty of Health Sciences of Cotonou, University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Littoral, Benin
- Louis Pasteur Clinic, Porto–Novo, Cotonou, Benin
| | - Jonathon R. Campbell
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Paul Ayélo
- Research and Teaching Unit in Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Benin
- Faculty of Health Sciences of Cotonou, University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Littoral, Benin
| | - Dismand Houinato
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences of Cotonou, Cotonou, Benin
- Faculty of Health Sciences of Cotonou, University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Littoral, Benin
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11
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Kheirandish A, Mehrparvar A, Abou-Bakre A, Zare Sakhvidi MJ. Association between long-term occupational noise exposure and obesity. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:20176-20185. [PMID: 34729714 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-17299-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Noise exposure has been linked to several health outcomes including obesity. This cross-sectional study examined the association between occupational noise exposure and body mass index as a measure of general obesity in 913 textile workers (totally from nine factories) in Yazd city, Iran, from winter to summer of 2018. The sound pressure level (dBA) at each working station was measured by a calibrated sound level meter. The long-term noise exposure score of each worker (as dBA.year) was calculated by multiplying the working history in each unit to its corresponding noise level. Models were adjusted for personal, behavioral, environmental, and family history factors. In total, 81.05% (n = 740) of the participants were exposed to noise levels higher than 85 dBA. The direct association was found for the fully adjusted model (β = 0.002; 95% CI: 0.001: 0.004). For the model with past year noise exposure, a 10.6% increase in odds was observed for each 5 dBA increase in noise exposure (95% CI: 1.005: 1.216). We found a 0.1% increase in the odds of being overweight in mixed-gender analysis (95% CI: 1.001:1.002) for each 5 dBA.year in the fully adjusted model. Occupational noise exposure should be regarded as a risk factor for cardiometabolic outcomes in industrial workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- AhmadAli Kheirandish
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Amirhooshang Mehrparvar
- Industrial Diseases Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Abdellah Abou-Bakre
- Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Sciences and Technics, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Beni Mellal, Morocco
| | - Mohammad Javad Zare Sakhvidi
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
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Shkembi A, Smith LM, Neitzel RL. Retrospective assessment of the association between noise exposure and nonfatal and fatal injury rates among miners in the United States from 1983 to 2014. Am J Ind Med 2022; 65:30-40. [PMID: 34706100 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mining is a significant economic force in the United States but has historically had among the highest nonfatal injury rates across all industries. Several factors, including workplace hazards and psychosocial stressors, may increase injury and fatality risk. Mining is one of the noisiest industries; however, the association between injury risk and noise exposure has not been evaluated in this industry. In this ecological study, we assessed the association between noise exposure and nonfatal and fatal occupational injury rates among miners. METHODS Federal US mining accident, injury, and illness data sets from 1983 to 2014 were combined with federal quarterly mining employment and production reports to quantify annual industry rates of nonfatal injuries and fatalities. An existing job-exposure matrix for occupational noise was used to estimate annual industry time-weighted average (TWA, dBA) exposures. Negative binomial models were used to assess relationships between noise, hearing conservation program (HCP) regulation changes in 2000, year, and mine type with incidence rates of injuries and fatalities. RESULTS Noise, HCP regulation changes, and mine type were each independently associated with nonfatal injuries and fatalities. In multivariate analysis, each doubling (5 dB increase) of TWA was associated with 1.08 (95% confidence interval: 1.05, 1.11) and 1.48 (1.23, 1.78) times higher rate of nonfatal injuries and fatalities, respectively. HCP regulation changes were associated with 0.61 (0.54, 0.70) and 0.49 (0.34, 0.71) times lower nonfatal injury and fatality rates, respectively. CONCLUSION Noise may be a significant independent risk factor for injuries and fatalities in mining.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abas Shkembi
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Lauren M Smith
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Richard L Neitzel
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Shkembi A, Smith L, Roberts B, Neitzel R. Fraction of acute work-related injuries attributable to hazardous occupational noise across the USA in 2019. Occup Environ Med 2021; 79:304-307. [PMID: 34697222 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2021-107906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The contribution of hazardous noise-a ubiquitous exposure in workplaces-to occupational injury risk is often overlooked. In this ecological study, the fraction of US workplace acute injuries resulting in days away from work in 2019 attributable to hazardous occupational noise exposure was estimated. METHODS Using the NoiseJEM, a job exposure matrix of occupational noise, and 2019 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics data, the proportion of workers experiencing hazardous occupational noise (≥85 dBA) was estimated for every major US Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) group. Population attributable fractions (PAFs) were calculated for each major SOC group using the relative risk (RR) taken from a published 2017 meta-analysis on this relationship. RESULTS About 20.3 million workers (13.8%) are exposed to hazardous levels of occupational noise. Nearly 3.4% of acute injuries resulting in days away from work in 2019 (95% CI 2.4% to 4.4%) were attributable to hazardous occupational noise, accounting for roughly 14 794 injuries (95% CI 10 367 to 18 994). The occupations with the highest and the lowest PAFs were production (11.9%) and office and administrative support (0.0%), respectively. DISCUSSION Hazardous noise exposure at work is an important and modifiable factor associated with a substantial acute occupational injury burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abas Shkembi
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Lauren Smith
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Richard Neitzel
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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14
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Effects of hearing protection field attenuation estimation systems and associated training on the level of noise attenuation in workers exposed to noise. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2021; 2021:CD015066. [PMCID: PMC8518552 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd015066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (intervention). The objectives are as follows: The first objective of this review is to assess the effects of field attenuation estimation systems and associated training on noise exposure at the ear and adherence to hearing protection use. A secondary objective is to assess whether the effects of field attenuation estimation systems differ according to age, gender, earplug type, and HPD use experience.
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Teixeira LR, Pega F, de Abreu W, de Almeida MS, de Andrade CAF, Azevedo TM, Dzhambov AM, Hu W, Macedo MRV, Martínez-Silveira MS, Sun X, Zhang M, Zhang S, Correa da Silva DT. The prevalence of occupational exposure to noise: A systematic review and meta-analysis from the WHO/ILO Joint Estimates of the Work-related Burden of Disease and Injury. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 154:106380. [PMID: 33875242 PMCID: PMC8204275 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
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 network of individual experts. Evidence from mechanistic and human data suggests that occupational exposure to noise may cause cardiovascular disease. In this paper, we present a systematic review and meta-analysis of the prevalence of occupational exposure to noise for estimating (if feasible) the number of deaths and disability-adjusted life years from cardiovascular disease that are attributable to exposure to this risk factor, for the development of the WHO/ILO Joint Estimates. OBJECTIVES We aimed to systematically review and meta-analyse estimates of the prevalence of occupational exposure to noise. DATA SOURCES We searched electronic academic databases for potentially relevant records from published and unpublished studies, including Ovid Medline, PubMed, EMBASE, and CISDOC. We also searched electronic grey literature databases, Internet search engines, and organizational websites; hand-searched reference list 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 economies in any WHO Member and/or ILO member State, but excluded children (<15 years) and unpaid domestic workers. We included all study types with an estimate of the prevalence of occupational exposure to noise, categorized into two levels: no (low) occupational exposure to noise (<85dBA) and any (high) occupational exposure to noise (≥85dBA). 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 combined prevalence estimates using random-effect meta-analysis. Two or more review authors assessed the risk of bias and the quality of evidence, using the RoB-SPEO tool and QoE-SPEO approach developed specifically for the WHO/ILO Joint Estimates. RESULTS Sixty-five studies (56 cross-sectional studies and nine cohort studies) met the inclusion criteria, comprising 157,370 participants (15,369 females) across 28 countries and all six WHO regions (Africa, Americas, Eastern Mediterranean, Europe, South-East Asia, and Western Pacific). For the main analyses, we prioritized the four included studies that surveyed national probability samples of general populations of workers over the 58 studies of workers in industrial sectors and/or occupations with relatively high occupational exposure to noise. The exposure was generally assessed with dosimetry, sound level meter, or official or company records; in the population-based studies, it was assessed with validated questions. Estimates of the prevalence of occupational exposure to noise are presented for all 65 included studies, by country, sex, 5-year age group, industrial sector, and occupation where feasible. The pooled prevalence of any (high) occupational exposure to noise (≥85dBA) among the general population of workers was 0.17 (95% confidence interval 0.16 to 0.19, 4 studies, 108,256 participants, 38 countries, two WHO regions, I2 98%, low quality of evidence). Subgroup analyses showed that pooled prevalence differed substantially by WHO region, sex, industrial sector, and occupation. CONCLUSIONS Our systematic review and meta-analysis found that occupational exposure to noise is prevalent among general populations of workers. The current body of evidence is, however, of low quality, due to serious concerns for risk of bias and indirectness. Producing estimates of occupational exposure to noise nevertheless appears evidence-based, and the pooled effect estimates presented in this systematic review are suitable as input data for the WHO/ILO Joint Estimates (if feasible). Protocol identifier: 10.1016/j.envint.2018.09.040 PROSPERO registration number: CRD42018092272.
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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.
| | - Wagner de Abreu
- Workers' Health and Human Ecology Research Center, National School of Public Health Sergio Arouca, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Marcia S de Almeida
- 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.
| | - Tatiana M Azevedo
- Workers' State Secretariat of Health, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; State Reference Center in Workers' Health, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - 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.
| | - Weijiang Hu
- National Institute for Occupational Health and Poison Control, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Marta R V Macedo
- Workers' Health Coordination, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | | | - Xin Sun
- National Institute for Occupational Health and Poison Control, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Meibian Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China.
| | - Siyu Zhang
- National Institute for Occupational Health and Poison Control, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - 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.
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Khosravipour M, Khanlari P. The association between road traffic noise and myocardial infarction: A systematic review and meta-analysis. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 731:139226. [PMID: 32422434 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.139226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis study aimed to investigate the association between exposure to road traffic noise (RTN) and myocardial infarction (MI). Of 681 studies found by searching in databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and PubMed on November 29, 2019, the number of 13 studies, including seven cohort, five case-control, and one cross-sectional studies with 1,626,910 participants and 45,713 cases of MI was included. The pooled relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of MI were calculated using a random-effect model across studies. Heterogeneity measures by reporting the I-square index. Subgroup analysis according to the designs and sensitivity analysis based on the Jackknife approach was performed. We observed in the eight studies the association was investigated in different noise exposure groups and in the 10 studies (including two conference papers) the risk of MI was provided per specific unit increment of RTN. We ran two independent types of meta-analyses involving a categorical analysis (comparing the highest and the lowest category of noise exposure groups) and an exposure-response analysis (the risk of MI per 10-dB increment of RTN). The pooled RR (95% CI) of MI for the categorical and exposure-response meta-analyses was calculated 1.03 (0.93, 1.13) and 1.02 (1.00, 1.05), respectively. For both types of meta-analyses, subgroup analysis indicates a significant association in the studies with case-control and cross-sectional designs but not cohort studies. For the exposure-response meta-analysis, a significantly greater risk of MI was observed after excluding the two conference papers (RR = 1.03 and 95% CI = 1.00, 1.05) and by further excluding the studies provided originally the risk of MI only for the categorical analysis (RR = 1.02 and 95% CI = 1.01, 1.03). We did not show a significant publication bias across studies. In conclusion, our study suggests a significant odds of association between exposure to RTN and the risk of MI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoud Khosravipour
- Research Center for Environmental Determinants of Health (RCEDH), Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | - Payam Khanlari
- Student Research Committee, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
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Selecting the best meta-analytic estimator for evidence-based practice: a simulation study. INT J EVID-BASED HEA 2020; 18:86-94. [DOI: 10.1097/xeb.0000000000000207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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18
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Themann CL, Masterson EA. Occupational noise exposure: A review of its effects, epidemiology, and impact with recommendations for reducing its burden. THE JOURNAL OF THE ACOUSTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2019; 146:3879. [PMID: 31795665 DOI: 10.1121/1.5134465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to hazardous noise is one of the most common occupational risks, both in the U.S. and worldwide. Repeated overexposure to noise at or above 85 dBA can cause permanent hearing loss, tinnitus, and difficulty understanding speech in noise. It is also associated with cardiovascular disease, depression, balance problems, and lower income. About 22 million U.S. workers are currently exposed to hazardous occupational noise. Approximately 33% of working-age adults with a history of occupational noise exposure have audiometric evidence of noise-induced hearing damage, and 16% of noise-exposed workers have material hearing impairment. While the Mining, Construction, and Manufacturing sectors typically have the highest prevalence of noise exposure and hearing loss, there are noise-exposed workers in every sector and every sector has workers with hearing loss. Noise-induced hearing loss is preventable. Increased understanding of the biological processes underlying noise damage may lead to protective pharmacologic or genetic therapies. For now, an integrated public health approach that (1) emphasizes noise control over reliance on hearing protection, (2) illustrates the full impact of hearing loss on quality of life, and (3) challenges the cultural acceptance of loud noise can substantially reduce the impact of noise on worker health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christa L Themann
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 1090 Tusculum Avenue, MS C-27, Cincinnati, Ohio 45226, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Masterson
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 1090 Tusculum Avenue, MS C-27, Cincinnati, Ohio 45226, USA
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Naghavi K Z, Mortazavi SB, Asilian M H, Hajizadeh E. Exploring the Contributory Factors of Confined Space Accidents Using Accident Investigation Reports and Semistructured Interviews. Saf Health Work 2019; 10:305-313. [PMID: 31497326 PMCID: PMC6717835 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2019.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2018] [Revised: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The oil and gas industry is one of the riskiest industries for confined space injuries. This study aimed to understand an overall picture of the causal factors of confined space accidents through analyzing accident reports and the use of a qualitative approach. Methods Twenty-one fatal occupational accidents were analyzed according to the Human Factors Analysis and Classification System approach. Furthermore, thirty-three semistructured interviews were conducted with employees in different roles to capture their experiences regarding the contributory factors. The content analyses of the interview transcripts were conducted using MAXQDA software. Results Based on accident reports, the largest proportions of causal factors (77%) were attributed to the organizational and supervisory levels, with the predominant influence of the organizational process. We identified 25 contributory factors in confined space accidents that were causal factors outside of the original Human Factors Analysis and Classification System framework. Therefore, modifications were made to deal with factors outside the organization and newly explored causal factors at the organizational level. External Influences as the fifth level considered contributory factors beyond the organization including Laws, Regulations and Standards, Government Policies, Political Influences, and Economic Status categories. Moreover, Contracting/Contract Management and Emergency Management were two extra categories identified at the organizational level. Conclusions Preventing confined space accidents requires addressing issues from the organizational to operator level and external influences beyond the organization. The recommended modifications provide a basis for accident investigation and risk analysis, which may be applicable across a broad range of industries and accident types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Naghavi K
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed B Mortazavi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hassan Asilian M
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Hajizadeh
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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Park SJ, Jung M, Sung JH. Influence of Physical and Musculoskeletal Factors on Occupational Injuries and Accidents in Korean Workers Based on Gender and Company Size. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16030345. [PMID: 30691147 PMCID: PMC6388154 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16030345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Though the overall incidence of occupational injuries and accidents has decreased, they continue to happen. Many associated factors are known and managing them with limited resources is difficult. This study evaluates related risk factors and prioritizes their management for reducing occupational injuries and accidents at the workplace. We used data from the 4th Korean Working Condition Survey conducted by the Korea Occupational Safety Health Research Institute from June to September 2014. A total of 14,381 persons (9776 men, 4605 women) were selected; t-test, chi-square test, and logistic regression analyses were performed to analyze data. The influence of physical (vibration, noise, abnormal temperature) and musculoskeletal (awkward posture, handling of heavy objects, repetitive tasks) factors was compared according to gender and company size. The risk of occupational injuries and accidents among men was related to musculoskeletal factors and vibration in companies with “under 50” employees and with awkward posture, vibration, and noise in companies with “50 or above” employees; however, among women in companies with “under 50” employees, it was associated with only vibration. Although we evaluated only a few risk factors, prioritizing them based on gender and company size has provided new valuable information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Jin Park
- University of Soonchunhyang, College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Cheonan, Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 31, Suncheonhyang 6-gil, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si, Chungcheongnam-do 31151, Korea.
| | - Myunghwan Jung
- Gyeongsang National University, College of Medicine, Research Institute of Life Sciences, Department of Microbiology, 15, Jinju-daero 816beon-gil, Jinju-si, Gyeongsangnam-do 52727, Korea.
| | - Joo Hyun Sung
- Gyeongsang National University, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University Changwon Hospital, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 15, Jinju-daero 816beon-gil, Jinju-si, Gyeongsangnam-do 52727, Korea.
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