1
|
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; 68:626-635. [PMID: 38795381 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxae029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Orikpete OF, Dennis NM, Kikanme KN, Ewim DRE. Advancing noise management in aviation: Strategic approaches for preventing noise-induced hearing loss. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 363:121413. [PMID: 38850921 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.121413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
As urbanization and population growth escalate, the challenge of noise pollution intensifies, particularly within the aviation industry. This review examines current insights into noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) in aviation, highlighting the risks to pilots, cabin crew, aircraft maintenance engineers, and ground staff from continuous exposure to high-level noise. It evaluates existing noise management and hearing conservation strategies, identifying key obstacles and exploring new technological solutions. While progress in developing protective devices and noise control technologies is evident, gaps in their widespread implementation persist. The study underscores the need for an integrated strategy combining regulatory compliance, technological advances, and targeted educational efforts. It advocates for global collaboration and policy development to safeguard the auditory health of aviation workers and proposes a strategic framework to enhance hearing conservation practices within the unique challenges of the aviation sector.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ochuko Felix Orikpete
- Centre for Occupational Health, Safety and Environment (COHSE), University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Rivers State, Nigeria
| | - Nicole M Dennis
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, University of Florida, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kha R, Macken O, Mitchell P, Liew G, Keay L, Waddell C, Yang E, Do V, Fricke T, Newall J, Gopinath B. The Australian Eye and Ear Health Survey (AEEHS): Study protocol for a population-based cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301846. [PMID: 38820367 PMCID: PMC11142534 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vision and hearing impairments are highly prevalent and have a significant impact on physical, psychological and social wellbeing. There is a need for accurate, contemporary national data on the prevalence, risk factors and impacts of vision and hearing loss in Australian adults. OBJECTIVES The Australian Eye and Ear Health Survey (AEEHS) aims to determine the prevalence, risk factors and impacts of vision and hearing loss in both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous older adults. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The AEEHS is a population-based cross-sectional survey which will include 5,000 participants (3250 non-Indigenous aged 50 years or older and 1750 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 40 years or older) from 30 sites covering urban and rural/regional geographic areas, selected using a multi-stage, random cluster sampling strategy. Questionnaires will be administered to collect data on socio-demographic, medical, ocular and ontological history. The testing battery includes assessment of blood pressure, blood sugar, anthropometry, visual acuity (presenting, unaided, pinhole and best-corrected), refraction, tonometry, slit lamp and dilated eye examination, ocular imaging including optical coherence tomography (OCT), OCT-angiography and retinal photography, and automated visual fields. Audiometry, tympanometry and video otoscopy will also be performed. The primary outcomes are age-standardised prevalence of cause-specific vision and hearing impairment. Secondary outcomes are prevalence of non-blinding eye diseases (including dry eye disease), patterns in health service utilisation, universal health coverage metrics, risk factors for vision and hearing impairment, and impact on quality of life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Kha
- Centre for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Oonagh Macken
- Macquarie University Hearing, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, The Australian Hearing Hub, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia
| | - Paul Mitchell
- Centre for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Gerald Liew
- Centre for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lisa Keay
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Science, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Eleanor Yang
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Science, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Vu Do
- Centre for Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Tim Fricke
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Science, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Brien Holden Foundation, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - John Newall
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Science, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Bamini Gopinath
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Science, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chand A, Manoharan A, Kumari LR. An Exploratory Study on Self-Reported Auditory Symptoms and Hearing Loss among Workers in a Small-Scale LPG Plant. Indian J Occup Environ Med 2024; 28:94-99. [PMID: 39114100 PMCID: PMC11302531 DOI: 10.4103/ijoem.ijoem_44_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Occupational noise is considered a factor contributing to acquired hearing loss (HL) in adults. Frequent noise exposure can cause cochlear damage, leading to sensorineural HL, tinnitus, vertigo, and other non auditory effects as well. Although it is well known that liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) plants in India have become a workplace source for occupational noise pollution exposure, there are not many studies that probe into the auditory effects of workplace noise in LPG plants. Aim The study aims to document HL and self reported otological symptoms in employees with occupational noise exposure at a typical LPG plant in a suburban location in India. 53 employees who reported workplace noise exposure were assessed for HL and self reported auditory symptoms. Method Self reported symptoms were collected using a custom made case history questionnaire, and auditory sensitivity was measured using air conduction audiometers. Results Among the 53 participants, 27 tested positive for HL. A mild degree of HL was frequently observed, followed by a moderate and severe degree of HL. In the self reported otological complaints reported by 31 participants, HL and aural fullness were the most commonly reported auditory symptoms. Additionally, the use of ear protection devices and hearing conservation practices among the participants were poor. Conclusion Hearing loss and self-reported auditory symptoms were present in the study group indicating the effect of occupational noise in the auditory system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arya Chand
- Department of Audiology and Speech Language Pathology, National Institute of Speech and Hearing, Trivandrum, Kerala, India
| | - Asha Manoharan
- Department of Audiology and Speech Language Pathology, National Institute of Speech and Hearing, Trivandrum, Kerala, India
| | - L Rejitha Kumari
- Department of Social Work, National Institute of Speech and Hearing, Trivandrum, Kerala, India
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Huyan J, Ramkissoon C, Laka M, Gaskin S. Assessing the Usefulness of Mobile Apps for Noise Management in Occupational Health and Safety: Quantitative Measurement and Expert Elicitation Study. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2023; 11:e46846. [PMID: 37990552 PMCID: PMC10686533 DOI: 10.2196/46846] [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: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Overexposure to occupational noise can lead to hearing loss. Occupational noise mapping is conventionally performed with a calibrated sound level meter (SLM). With the rise of mobile apps, there is a growing number of SLM apps available on mobile phones. However, few studies have evaluated such apps for accuracy and usefulness to guide those with occupational noise detection needs in selecting a quality app. Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy and usefulness of SLM mobile apps to guide workplace health and safety professionals in determining these apps' suitability for assessing occupational noise exposure. Methods The following three iOS apps were assessed: the NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) Sound Level Meter, Decibel X, and SoundMeter X apps. The selected apps were evaluated for their accuracy in measuring sound levels in low-, moderate-, and high-noise settings within both simulated environments and real-world environments by comparing them to a conventional SLM. The usefulness of the apps was then assessed by occupational health specialists using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). Results The NIOSH Sound Level Meter app accurately measured noise across a range of sound levels in both simulated settings and real-world settings. However, considerable variation was observed between readings. In comparison, the Decibel X and SoundMeter X apps showed more consistent readings but consistently underestimated noise levels, suggesting that they may pose a risk for workers. Nevertheless, none of the differences in sound measurements between the three apps and the conventional SLM were statistically significant (NIOSH Sound Level Meter: P=.78; Decibel X: P=.38; SoundMeter X: P=.40). The MARS scores for the three apps were all above 3.0, indicating the usefulness of these apps. Conclusions Under the conditions of this study, the NIOSH Sound Level Meter app had equivalent accuracy to the calibrated SLM and a degree of usefulness according to the MARS. This suggests that the NIOSH Sound Level Meter app may be suitable for mapping noise levels as part of a monitoring strategy in workplaces. However, it is important to understand its limitations. Mobile apps should complement but not replace conventional SLMs when trying to assess occupational noise exposure risk. Our outcomes also suggest that the MARS tool may have limited applicability to measurement-based apps and may be more suited to information-based apps that collect, record, and store information.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingchen Huyan
- Adelaide Exposure Science and Health, School of Public Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Chandnee Ramkissoon
- Adelaide Exposure Science and Health, School of Public Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Mah Laka
- Adelaide Health Technology Assessment, School of Public Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Sharyn Gaskin
- Adelaide Exposure Science and Health, School of Public Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Los FS, Hulshof CTJ, de Boer AGEM, van der Molen HF. A workers' health surveillance online training programme for occupational physicians. Occup Med (Lond) 2023; 73:148-154. [PMID: 36843562 PMCID: PMC10132203 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqad024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To support occupational physicians (OPs) in the implementation of workers' health surveillance (WHS), a training programme was developed. AIMS (i) To evaluate the effects of a WHS training programme for OPs on knowledge, self-efficacy and skills to implement WHS. (ii) To evaluate to what extent a WHS training programme is acceptable and feasible for implementation in practice. METHODS A single-blinded randomized controlled trial with waiting-list control group was used. The WHS training programme consisted of an e-learning and a 4.5-h online training session. OPs completed a knowledge test (0-8), self-efficacy questionnaires on knowledge and skills (6-60), and vignette assignments (0-16) to measure skills. OPs completed the questionnaires, either before and after the WHS training programme (intervention group), or before the training programme (control group) while receiving the training programme after the waiting period. All OPs completed questionnaires about the training's acceptability, and feasibility for implementation in practice. ANCOVA and Poisson regression analyses were conducted. RESULTS The self-efficacy score (M = 44.1 versus M = 37.2) (P < 0.001) and skills score (M = 9.6 versus M = 8.3) (P < 0.05) of OPs in the training group (N = 16) were higher than the control group (N = 23). No effect was found on knowledge. Evaluation of acceptability and feasibility showed that 21 (58%) OPs were very satisfied with the training part on initiating WHS, and 29 (85%) would recommend the WHS training programme to colleagues. CONCLUSIONS This WHS training programme has a positive effect on self-efficacy and skills of OPs to implement WHS, and may be acceptable and feasible to implement in practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F S Los
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C T J Hulshof
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A G E M de Boer
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - H F van der Molen
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Dogbla L, Gouvenelle C, Thorin F, Lesage FX, Zak M, Ugbolue UC, Charbotel B, Baker JS, Pereira B, Dutheil F. Occupational Risk Factors by Sectors: An Observational Study of 20,000 Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3632. [PMID: 36834326 PMCID: PMC9967294 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043632] [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: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to assess the prevalence of exposure by sector and the sectors of activity most exposed to each exposure, using routine occupational health data, and to quantify the risk of being exposed. METHOD Occupational risk factors were assessed by workers followed by the Occupational Health Service of Cher, using self-reported questionnaires. The sectors of activity were grouped into seven sectors, and the risks were grouped into six occupational exposure groups. Comparisons were made using the Chi-squared test and Cramer's V, and the odds ratios were calculated by using logistic regression. RESULTS We included 19,891 workers. The construction sector had the highest prevalence (p < 0.05 vs. all other sectors) of exposure to physical (76%) and biomechanical factors (82%), as well as chemical risks (75%). Human health and social work was the sector with the highest prevalence of exposure to biological factors (69%), psychosocial factors (90%), and atypical working hours (61%). With workers from administrative and support sectors as the reference, construction workers had more chance of declaring exposure to physical factors (OR = 3.28, 95%CI = 2.89 to 3.72), biomechanical factors (1.82, 1.58 to 2.09), and chemical agents (3.83, 3.38 to 4.33). Workers from the human health and social sectors had more chance of being exposed to biological agents (13.4, 11.9 to 15.2), atypical working hours (1.93, 1.75 to 2.14), and psychosocial factors (2.74, 2.38 to 3.16). CONCLUSION Psychosocial risk factors were commonly reported in all sectors. Workers in the construction, human health, and social sectors seem to report more exposures than those in other sectors. The analysis of occupational exposures is a necessary basis to build an efficient preventive strategy for occupational health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luther Dogbla
- Physiological and Psychosocial Stress, CNRS UMR 6024, LaPSCo, University Clermont Auvergne, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Occupational Medicine, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Occupational Health Service of Cher (APST18), 18000 Bourges, France
| | - Cédric Gouvenelle
- Occupational Health Service of Cher (APST18), 18000 Bourges, France
- CNRS, Acté, University Clermont Auvergne, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Florence Thorin
- Occupational Health Service of Cher (APST18), 18000 Bourges, France
| | | | - Marek Zak
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Physiotherapy, The Jan Kochanowski University, 25-369 Kielce, Poland
| | - Ukadike Chris Ugbolue
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Institute for Clinical Exercise & Health Science, University of the West of Scotland, Glasgow G72 0LH, UK
| | - Barbara Charbotel
- UMRESTTE, Domaine Rockefeller, University Lyon 1, 69373 Lyon, France
| | - Julien S. Baker
- Centre for Health and Exercise Science Research, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Bruno Pereira
- Clinical Research and Innovation Direction, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Frédéric Dutheil
- Physiological and Psychosocial Stress, CNRS UMR 6024, LaPSCo, University Clermont Auvergne, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Occupational Medicine, WittyFit, 63001 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Tavares RDSCR, Silva LF, Muniz Júnior J. Presenteeism and noise perception at work: a cross-sectional study using association analysis. SAO PAULO MED J 2023; 141:36-44. [PMID: 36043671 PMCID: PMC9808988 DOI: 10.1590/1516-3180.2021.0792.r2.07042022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Presenteeism refers to the presence of a worker at work with reduced performance due to illness, and it is a common public health problem. Exposure to noise during production processes brings risk to workers' health. OBJECTIVE To analyze the health profile of workers in the automotive industry and identify the association between noise perception and presenteeism among workers in the Brazilian automotive industry. DESIGN AND SETTING This was a cross-sectional study utilizing a case study design analyzing the automotive industry in the interior of São Paulo state, Brazil. METHODS This study included 306 workers using the Presenteeism Work Limitations Questionnaire protocol. Multiple logistic regression was used for data analysis. RESULTS Male workers with reports of headache, tension, and limited well-being at work, having perceived that noise exposure interferes with productivity, showed a positive association with the occurrence of presenteeism. Physical demand had the highest score in terms of interfering with the presenteeism index. CONCLUSION Workers' perceptions of noise were associated with presenteeism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Luiz Felipe Silva
- PhD. Lecturer, Natural Resources Institute (Department), Universidade Federal de Itajubá (UNIFEI), Itajubá (MG), Brazil
| | - Jorge Muniz Júnior
- PhD. Associate Professor, Department of Production, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Guaratinguetá (SP), Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Liebenberg A, Nie VM, Brichta AM, Ahmadi S, James CL. Pre-employment hearing threshold levels of 59,601 Australian male coal miners compared to an otologically normal international male population (ISO7029:2019). Int J Audiol 2022:1-9. [PMID: 35801823 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2022.2088625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study compared the pre-employment median hearing threshold level (HTL) distribution from a population of coal miners from New South Wales (NSW), Australia, to an otologically normal, age-matched population described by the International Standards Organisation (ISO) ISO 7029:2019, to determine any differences. DESIGN This was an observational, retrospective, repeated cross-sectional study. STUDY SAMPLE De-identified audiometric records of 59,601 male employees entering NSW coal mining in three representative five-year periods between 1991 and 2015 were utilised. RESULTS The median HTL deviation of the mining population was statistically significantly different (p < 0.05) from the ISO population, for almost all analyses. Overall, the mining population cohorts have higher (worse) median HTLs compared to the ISO population. The greatest difference occurs at 4 kHz in older age groups, likely indicating noise-induced hearing loss. CONCLUSION These findings indicate that some NSW coal mine workers commence their careers with evidence of pre-existing hearing loss (HL), in an industry with excessive noise exposures. These results provide Australian mining and other noisy industries with evidence to support a review of hearing conservation strategies to improve mitigation of hearing loss across the working lifespan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adelle Liebenberg
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| | - Valerie M Nie
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| | - Alan M Brichta
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| | - Sima Ahmadi
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| | - Carole L James
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
This paper conducts a cost–benefit analysis of Australia’s Covid-19 lockdown strategy relative to pursuit of a mitigation strategy in March 2020. The estimated additional deaths from a mitigation strategy are 11,500 to 40,000, implying a Cost per Quality Adjusted Life Year saved by locking down of at least 11 times the generally employed figure of $100,000 for health interventions in Australia. The lockdowns do not then seem to have been justified by reference to the standard benchmark. Consideration of the information available to the Australian government in March 2020 yields a similar ratio and therefore the same conclusion that lockdown was not warranted. If Australia experiences a new outbreak, and cannot contain it without resort to a nationwide lockdown, the death toll from adopting a mitigation strategy at this point would be even less than had it done so in March 2020, due to the vaccination campaign, lessons learned since March 2020, and because the period over which the virus would then inflict casualties would now be much less than the period from March 2020. This would favour a mitigation policy even more strongly than in March 2020. This approach of assessing the savings in quality adjusted life years and comparing them to a standard benchmark figure ensures that all quality adjusted life years saved by various health interventions are treated equally, which accords with the ethical principle of equity across people.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Lally
- Capital Financial Consultants Ltd, 52 Friend St, Karori, Wellington, 6012, New Zealand.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lee KH, Benke G, Mckenzie D. The efficacy of earplugs at a major hazard facility. Phys Eng Sci Med 2022; 45:107-114. [PMID: 35023076 DOI: 10.1007/s13246-021-01087-y] [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: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
At a major hazard facility, cases of occupational noise-induced hearing loss have occurred despite the use of hearing protection devices. Preliminary measurements of personal attenuation ratings (PAR) suggested that earplugs may not achieve the attenuation implied by their Australian SLC80 Class designation in field-use conditions. We examined the relationship between PAR and the SLC80 classification for earplugs, as a good understanding of the attenuation provided by earplugs under normal field-use conditions, rather than in laboratory settings, is vital to their effective use as a control measure for noise exposure. A cross-sectional study was performed with 65 volunteers. Participants were recruited from Operations and Maintenance Technicians at the major hazard facility. The participants had their PARs checked with different earplug types using the 3 M™ E-A-Rfit™ system. We examined the PARs measured and also assigned a 'pass' or 'fail' rating depending on whether the earplug achieved 22 dB attenuation. 22 dB attenuation for 80% of users is the minimum to meet the definition for Australian SLC80 Class 4 hearing protection. None of the earplug types achieved 22 dB attenuation for 80% of users when tested in field-use conditions. There were statistically significant differences in the frequency of achieving a 'Pass', and in PAR, depending on earplug type. Roll-down foam earplugs may provide superior attenuation compared to pre-moulded earplugs. Earplugs are unlikely to achieve the attenuation found in laboratory conditions during field-use. Personalised selection of hearing protection devices based on fit-testing results should be encouraged.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kah Heng Lee
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia. .,Fellow of the Australasian Faculty of Occupational and Environmental Medicine - Royal Australasian College of Physicians, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.
| | - Geza Benke
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Dean Mckenzie
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Epworth HealthCare, Richmond, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Attitudes towards Safe Listening Measures in Entertainment Venues: Results from an International Survey among Young Venue-Goers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182312860. [PMID: 34886583 PMCID: PMC8657835 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sustained exposure to excess noise in recreational settings is among the main causes of hearing loss among young adults worldwide. Within a global effort to develop standards for safe listening in entertainment venues, this study aims at identifying modifiable factors (knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs), which can hinder or facilitate the acceptance of safe listening measures in public venues among young venue-goers. METHODS An online questionnaire was developed inspired by the Health Belief Model. It was divided into five sections: (i) socio-demographics (ii) listening habits, (iii) experiences with loud music, (iv) knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs, and (v) willingness to change. Participants were recruited through social media. RESULTS 2264 individuals aged 16-35 completed the questionnaire. Most visited entertainment venues relatively infrequently, with the majority of them only visiting once per month or less. Nevertheless, most reported having experienced the negative consequences of listening to loud music. Overall, most people were favorable towards preventive measures, especially quiet areas. CONCLUSION Our findings stress the urge to address the issue of safe listening in public venues and support an approach based on the introduction of standards. Moreover, they provide us with information on key factors to be considered when introducing and communicating preventive measures in public entertainment venues.
Collapse
|
13
|
Ademi Z, Ackerman IN, Zomer E, Liew D. Productivity-Adjusted Life-Years: A New Metric for Quantifying Disease Burden. PHARMACOECONOMICS 2021; 39:271-273. [PMID: 33428173 PMCID: PMC7797495 DOI: 10.1007/s40273-020-00999-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Zanfina Ademi
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia.
| | - Ilana N Ackerman
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Ella Zomer
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Danny Liew
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| |
Collapse
|