Abstract
BackgroundThis article presents the details and findings of a practical implementation of a preliminary model for use in hearing conservation programmes (HCPs) in the mining sector in South Africa.ObjectivesThe implementation is based on a previously published model, called feedback-based noise monitoring model (FBNMM), and represents its implementation as a tool of predicting occupational noise-induced hearing loss (ONIHL), as well as monitoring and managing HCPs in the mining sector within the South African context.MethodThe article, utilising real miners’ data, demonstrates this basic static feedback model with its practical applications such as estimating, monitoring and providing quantitative information to aid miners, mining administrators and policymakers in decision-making around HCPs, as recommended in the previous 2019 publication by Moroe et al. This study was conducted in a South African platinum mine. Evidence on the model’s sensitivity and practicability in early identification, intervention and management of ONIHL in the workplace is presented.ResultsFindings show how the use of the model within an HCP viewed as a complex intervention can allow for early prediction of ONIHL, consequently affording more accurate early intervention as part of preventive audiology within the health and safety goals of mines.ConclusionThe feedback-based model should be a useful tool for successful implementation and monitoring of HCPs within South African mines.
Highlights
Occupational noise-induced hearing loss (ONIHL) is a complex disease (Le, Straatman, Lea, & Westerberg, 2017), which is recorded to be prevalent in the mining industry, with evidence suggesting that it is a leading work-related disability (Ritzel & McCrary-Quarles, 2008)
Ritzel and McCrary-Quarles (2008) assert that, second only to presbycusis, ONIHL is a form of acquired hearing loss that presents the sufferer with significant negative consequences following exposure to high levels of noise (Ritzel & McCrary-Quarles, 2008)
Regardless of the fact that hearing loss has been considered as non-life-threatening, the presence of it, even in mild forms, is sufficient evidence to prove that if untreated it can lead to profound psychological and psychosocial consequences for the sufferer’s quality of life (Tye-Murray, 2009)
Summary
Occupational noise-induced hearing loss (ONIHL) is a complex disease (Le, Straatman, Lea, & Westerberg, 2017), which is recorded to be prevalent in the mining industry, with evidence suggesting that it is a leading work-related disability (Ritzel & McCrary-Quarles, 2008). Ritzel and McCrary-Quarles (2008) assert that, second only to presbycusis, ONIHL is a form of acquired hearing loss that presents the sufferer with significant negative consequences following exposure to high levels of noise (Ritzel & McCrary-Quarles, 2008). The presence of ONIHL, which has a direct link to the employee’s communication handicap, may lead to workers being regarded as incompetent or inactive in their job, which eventually impacts negatively on teamwork and team productivity (Momm & Geiecker, 2009). This impact on teamwork extends to negative influences on communication amongst workers, which impacts the workers’ ability to communicate amongst each other, and on their ability to observe safety standards. This article presents the details and findings of a practical implementation of a preliminary model for use in hearing conservation programmes (HCPs) in the mining sector in South Africa
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