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Hearing Protection Among Workers Exposed to Occupational Noise in the South African Aluminium Industry
Nomfundo Moroe1, Asibonge Shandu1
1Speech Pathology and Audiology Department, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2001, South Africa.
Background:
Occupational noise-induced hearing loss (ONIHL) remains one of the most prevalent occupational diseases globally and in South Africa. Despite awareness and regulatory frameworks, consistent use of hearing protection devices (HPDs) is suboptimal in high-noise industries.
Aim:
To investigate patterns of HPD use and the factors influencing compliance among workers in an aluminium manufacturing company exposed to noise levels exceeding 85 dB(A).
Methods:
A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 115 workers, including 68.7% males and 31.3% females. Chi-square tests assessed associations between categorical variables, and logistic regression identified significant predictors of consistent HPD use.
Results:
Although 94.8% of workers were aware of the risks of hazardous noise, only 51.3% reported always using HPDs. Gender, education level, type of HPD, type and duration of noise exposure, and perceived susceptibility to hearing loss were significantly associated with consistent HPD use. Logistic regression revealed that gender, type of HPD, type of noise exposure, and perceived susceptibility significantly predicted consistent use.
Conclusions:
Despite high awareness and access to HPDs, consistent use remains moderate and is influenced by demographic, perceptual, device-related, and workplace factors. Findings highlight the need for targeted interventions, training, and workplace strategies to improve HPD compliance and prevent ONIHL.
