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Noise-induced hearing loss and hearing conservation in mining
1Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago, PO Box 913, Dunedin, New Zealand. mcbride@gandalf.otago.ac.nz
Occupational Medicine (Oxford, England)
|August 4, 2004
Summary
Hearing loss prevention in mining remains critical, as noise exposure and noise-induced hearing loss rates haven't improved in 20 years. This review highlights best practices for prevention.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Audiology
- Mining Engineering
Background:
- Noise exposure is widespread in the mining industry.
- Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) prevalence has remained stagnant for two decades.
- Effective hearing conservation is a significant occupational health challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a literature review on noise-induced hearing loss in mining.
- To identify key developments and current best practices in hearing conservation.
- To address the persistent issue of NIHL in the mining sector.
Main Methods:
- Literature search using OVID as the primary engine.
- Keywords included: occupational noise, noise-induced hearing loss, ear protective devices, and mining.
- Analysis of relevant articles focusing on prevention strategies.
Main Results:
- A total of 66 articles were identified, with only 11 in English and few published recently.
- Limited recent literature indicates a lack of significant progress in addressing NIHL.
- Noise remains a generic hazard in mining, necessitating a review of prevention methods.
Conclusions:
- Despite the prevalence of noise exposure in mining, advancements in hearing loss prevention appear limited.
- Current best practices for noise hazard prevention require ongoing review and implementation.
- Further research and updated strategies are needed to reduce noise-induced hearing loss in miners.