Introduction: Noise is a dominant physical hazard in the mining industry that is often overlooked, despite its significant impact on auditory health and occupational safety risks, including fatigue and accidents. Objective: This study aims to identify the profile of noise exposure, analyze its impact on workers' hearing function and safety risks, and formulate optimal control strategies at a major coal mining services company. Methods: A descriptive observational case study was conducted in August 2025 at critical operational areas (Pit Road and Workshop). Primary data were collected using a calibrated Sound Level Meter referring to SNI 7231:2009 standards, while secondary data were obtained from workers' audiometric Medical Check-Up (MCU) results. Results and Discussion: Measurements indicated that 80% of sample points exceeded the Threshold Limit Value (85 dBA), with the highest intensity reaching 98 dBA in the Workshop area. MCU analysis revealed a prevalence of hearing impairment indications of 35% among operators with a service period of >5 years. High noise levels were also identified as potential factors reducing vigilance and hindering operational communication. Conclusion: Current administrative controls and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) are insufficient in reducing risks. The study recommends a transition towards technology-based continuous noise monitoring (IoT) and the integration of health data for more proactive OHS risk management

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause of peripheral vertigo, characterized by brief episodes of vertigo due to otoconia displacement. Although most previous studies have focused on intrinsic factors such as age, gender, osteoporosis, and metabolic disorders, evidence regarding the role of environmental factors, particularly occupational noise exposure, is limited. Chronic noise has the potential to affect vestibular function through both sensory and vascular mechanisms. This study aims to narratively review the effect of occupational noise exposure on the risk of BPPV by integrating clinical, epidemiological, and experimental findings. The method used is a literature-based narrative review of the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases without year restrictions, using the keywords "BPPV", "occupational noise exposure", "vestibular dysfunction", "VEMP", and "otoconia displacement". The search results obtained 25 relevant articles linking BPPV to otolith, hormonal, vascular, lifestyle factors, and occupational noise exposure. The results indicate that chronic noise can cause sensory damage (otoconia and vestibular hair cells), vascular disorders (hypertension, cardiovascular disorders, and inner ear microvascular circulation disorders), and exacerbate lifestyle comorbidities (sedentary lifestyle, osteoporosis, hypertension, diabetes). The discussion confirms that these multifactorial mechanisms explain the susceptibility of industrial workers to BPPV despite normal hearing function. The conclusion of this study is that workplace noise exposure has been shown to play a significant role as a risk factor for BPPV, therefore, prevention strategies, vestibular health monitoring, and healthy lifestyle interventions need to be optimized in occupational health programs.

IntroductionEffective prevention and intervention strategies for tinnitus rely on identifying risk factors and understanding its progression over time. However, longitudinal data on these aspects are limited. This study therefore aimed to (1) assess the incidence of tinnitus and identify risk factors associated with tinnitus development, and (2) assess the impact of tinnitus and change in impact over time and identify factors associated with this change.MethodsData from the Busselton Healthy Ageing Study, a population-based cohort of individuals born between 1946–1964, were used. Information on tinnitus presence and impact, general health, ear-related health and mental health was collected from 3863 participants through questionnaires and physical measurements at two time points with a six-year interval. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine risk factors for tinnitus development. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was used to examine factors associated with changes in impact.ResultsThe 6-year incidence of tinnitus was 12.1%. Statistically significant risk factors for developing tinnitus included male gender, higher BMI, larger waist circumference, fair subjective health, hearing loss, occupational noise exposure with occasional use of hearing protection, hyperacusis, migraine, and diagnosed anxiety disorder. Among participants with pre-existing tinnitus, 21.4% reported an increase in tinnitus impact over time, while 16.5% experienced a decrease. Changes in impact were influenced by general health and ear-related health factors.ConclusionThe high incidence of tinnitus and its notable impact on daily life emphasize the importance of gaining a better understanding of the broad range of identified risk factors for developing tinnitus and change in impact. The multifaceted nature of these factors, comprising hearing-related issues, general health conditions and psychological aspects, underscore the complexity of tinnitus etiology and impact. By gaining more insight into these factors, we can inform future research efforts aimed at developing targeted prevention and intervention strategies tailored to specific demographic groups.

Effective prevention and intervention strategies for tinnitus rely on identifying risk factors and understanding its progression over time. However, longitudinal data on these aspects are limited. This study therefore aimed to (1) assess the incidence of tinnitus and identify risk factors associated with tinnitus development, and (2) assess the impact of tinnitus and change in impact over time and identify factors associated with this change. Data from the Busselton Healthy Ageing Study, a population-based cohort of individuals born between 1946-1964, were used. Information on tinnitus presence and impact, general health, ear-related health and mental health was collected from 3863 participants through questionnaires and physical measurements at two time points with a six-year interval. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine risk factors for tinnitus development. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was used to examine factors associated with changes in impact. The 6-year incidence of tinnitus was 12.1%. Statistically significant risk factors for developing tinnitus included male gender, higher BMI, larger waist circumference, fair subjective health, hearing loss, occupational noise exposure with occasional use of hearing protection, hyperacusis, migraine, and diagnosed anxiety disorder. Among participants with pre-existing tinnitus, 21.4% reported an increase in tinnitus impact over time, while 16.5% experienced a decrease. Changes in impact were influenced by general health and ear-related health factors. The high incidence of tinnitus and its notable impact on daily life emphasize the importance of gaining a better understanding of the broad range of identified risk factors for developing tinnitus and change in impact. The multifaceted nature of these factors, comprising hearing-related issues, general health conditions and psychological aspects, underscore the complexity of tinnitus etiology and impact. By gaining more insight into these factors, we can inform future research efforts aimed at developing targeted prevention and intervention strategies tailored to specific demographic groups.

Background:Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is among the most common occupational health conditions worldwide. In South Africa, thousands of informal taxi drivers are chronically exposed to high traffic and environmental noise; however, data on their hearing health, awareness of audiology or access to hearing conservation programmes are lacking.Objective:This study investigated occupational noise exposure, auditory and nonauditory symptoms, knowledge of hearing risks and health-seeking behaviours among minibus taxi drivers in Johannesburg.Methods:A cross-sectional, quantitative design was used. Eighty-six male taxi drivers completed structured questionnaires on demographics, work history, exposure, symptoms, knowledge and health-seeking behaviour. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests and logistic regression.Results:All participants were male. Most firstly, encountered occupational noise between the ages 20 and 30 and worked 12–16 hours daily, with 16–37 years of cumulative exposure. Tinnitus (64%) and hearing difficulties (40%) were the most common, with 78% noticing hearing changes during peak hours. Noise exposure was significantly associated with tinnitus, hearing difficulties, diabetes, perceived hearing changes and the belief that noise affects work. Logistic regression identified tinnitus [odds ratio (OR) = 1634] and hearing difficulties (OR = 166) as the strongest predictors of hearing change. Only 27% had undergone hearing testing, and over half were unaware of audiologists’ roles. Knowledge of hearing risks and audiology was linked to high testing uptake.Conclusions:Johannesburg taxi drivers are at high risk for NIHL because of chronic exposure, long shifts and lack of protective measures. Limited awareness of audiology and poor health-seeking behaviour further increase vulnerability.

This study evaluates occupational noise and vibration exposure among nine male go-kart instructors (mean age 25.7 years, mean work experience 6.3 years; 2–12 years) using objective measurements, predictive modelling, and subjective hearing assessments. Daily noise exposure (LEX,8 h) ranged from 75.8 dB to 82.3 dB, with peak levels reaching 109.3 dB. Regression analysis showed that operating more than nine go-karts simultaneously could exceed the 85 dB regulatory threshold, predicting noise levels up to 92.7 dB at full capacity. Whole-body vibration (WBV) exceeded short-term exposure limits in two of four cases (max 3.26 m/s²), while hand-arm vibration (HAV) surpassed limits in three cases, reaching 14.23 m/s². The average score on the Amsterdam Inventory for Auditory Disability and Handicap (AIADH) was 68.1, indicating mild perceived hearing difficulties. Strong negative correlations were found between AIADH scores and both age and work experience. Our findings reveal hidden risks in this recreational occupational setting and underscore the need for more nuanced exposure assessment and preventive measures in non-industrial sectors.

Due to the underestimation of the combined effects of aging and occupational noise exposure, hearing loss is a significant global public health problem. This study looked at how age and noise exposure from the workplace affected hearing loss in American workers. The pure-tone average (0.5–4 kHz) across twelve industry categories categorized by the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) was used to define hearing thresholds using more than 1.1 million de-identified audiometric records (2000–2008) from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Industry×age interactions, betweenindustry differences, and within-industry age effects were evaluated using logistic regression models. Age-related hearing deterioration is made worse by occupational noise, according to a substantial interaction between age and industry that suggests a synergistic rather than additive connection. These results demonstrate the increased risk among older workers in high-exposure jobs and offer extensive evidence of varying vulnerability to hearing loss across industries. To reduce cumulative auditory impairment in the aging workforce, it may be crucial to integrate wearable or mobile health devices and strengthen targeted hearing conservation initiatives.

Hearing loss is increasingly recognized as a major public health concern among young adults, who are traditionally considered a low-risk group. This narrative review synthesizes recent evidence on risk and aggravating factors of early-onset hearing impairment, including recreational and occupational noise exposure, genetic susceptibility, infections, ototoxic medications, and lifestyle contributors. Pathophysiological mechanisms include cochlear synaptopathy, oxidative stress, excitotoxicity, vascular compromise, and immune-mediated injury. Global Burden of Disease data and World Health Organization reports indicate that more than one billion young people are at risk due to unsafe listening practices. Studies highlight emerging risk factors such as hidden hearing loss, extended high-frequency impairment and associations with COVID-19. Aggravating factors include delayed diagnosis, cumulative exposures and lack of preventive strategies. Early detection via advanced audiological assessments, such as extended high-frequency audiometry, otoacoustic emissions, speech-in-noise testing and auditory brainstem responses, is critical to prevent permanent damage. Public health interventions-particularly safe listening campaigns, early screening and monitoring in high-risk populations-are essential to reduce long-term disability.

BackgroundCNC (Computer Numerical Control) wood milling machines offer significant productivity advantages but are associated with excessive noise pollution, posing health risks to workers. This study investigates the influence of machining parameters on Noise Pollution Level (NPL) in CNC wood milling and aims to optimize these parameters to minimize noise emissions.MethodsA Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on Box-Behnken Design (BBD) was employed to model the effects of cutting speed, feed rate, depth of cut, and step over on NPL. A total of 27 experimental runs were conducted. Statistical analysis, including ANOVA and regression modeling, was performed to determine the significance of each parameter. The model was further optimized using a Genetic Algorithm (GA).ResultsThe NPL observed across experiments ranged from 97.4 dB to 103.8 dB, with all values exceeding the NIOSH recommended limit of 85 dB. ANOVA results revealed that cutting speed, cutting speed squared, feed rate, and depth of cut had a statistically significant effect on NPL (p < 0.05). The regression model showed a high degree of fit (R² = 0.945). Optimal parameters—cutting speed of 12,730 rpm, feed rate of 58 mm/s, depth of cut of 3.2 mm, and step over of 6.4 mm—were identified using GA, resulting in a predicted NPL of 96.2 dB, which closely matched the experimentally validated value of 95.8 dB.ConclusionThe study confirms that NPL in CNC wood milling can be significantly reduced by optimizing machining parameters. The integration of RSM and GA provides a reliable framework for minimizing occupational noise exposure, thereby enhancing worker safety in woodworking environments.

Introduction: The regulations related to hearing conservation programs are currently still theoretical and not practical. In the production process at PT POMI, there are several pieces of equipment that serve as sources of noise in the work area. Based on data from measurements of the work environment related to noise in the work area and noise exposure measurements on representative workers, the results indicate that the highest noise exposure at PT POMI is 97.9 dBA. Method: This research is a descriptive study that provides an overview of the implementation of the hearing conservation program. Data collection was conducted through observation, interviews, and literature review. The data obtained is then discussed by comparing it with existing regulations. Result: PT Paiton Operation and Maintenance Indonesia has implemented all elements of the hearing conservation program in accordance with the regulatory requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) No. 1910.65 regarding Occupational Noise Exposure. Conclusion: PT POMI has implemented six elements of the hearing conservation program including noise exposure monitoring; engineering and administrative controls; audiometric test; hearing protection devices; training and education; and record keeping. However, the implementation of these elements has not been fully maximized.

Occupational noise exposure and its effects on hearing threshold shifts and otolithic vestibular functions in male workers.

Abstract Noise exposure is a significant occupational hazard in the water industry, particularly in pump houses where excessive noise levels pose risks to workers’ health and safety. This study evaluated the compliance of Noise Risk Assessment (NRA) at selected pump houses based on the Industry Code of Practice for Management of Occupational Noise Exposure and Hearing Conservation 2019 (ICOP 2019). The study focused on two pump houses, LV-1 and HT-2. A mixed-methods approach was employed, incorporating qualitative compliance evaluation against ICOP 2019 guideline and quantitative noise mapping using GIS-based software. Noise measurement data were collected from pre-existing reports, and spatial noise distribution was analysed to identify high-risk areas. The results showed that the highest recorded noise levels were with LV-1 reaching up to 92.0 dB(A) in the lower floor area, while HT-2 had localized hotspots with peak noise levels of 87.4 dB(A) near Pump Units 1 to 4 and the air compressor. A positive correlation between relationship between pump capacity and noise levels was found, especially in HT-2 where noise levels increased more rapidly with pump capacity. The findings also showed that both pump houses exceeded permissible exposure limits, with LV-1 exhibiting a more uniform distribution of high noise levels, while HT- 2 had localized noise hotspots. Compliance evaluation revealed that while LV-1 met most requirements, gaps existed in noise mapping and personal monitoring. HT-2, however, showed significant deficiencies in compliance, particularly in personal noise exposure monitoring, calibration documentation, and implementation of noise control measures. The NRA highlighted the need for enhanced noise mitigation strategies, including engineering and administrative controls, to reduce occupational noise exposure at pump houses. Findings also suggested that noise mapping should incorporate dynamic assessment techniques to account for variations in operational noise levels over time.

Occupational noise exposure and ASCVD risk in Chinese workers: the cross-lag mediating role of free fatty acids.

A rare variant in TRIOBP linked to occupational noise exposure in Meniere disease

BackgroundIron deficiency anemia (IDA) may compromise auditory function through cochlear hypoxia and altered hemodynamics; however, longitudinal evidence linking IDA to tinnitus remains limited. This study investigated the association between IDA and new-onset tinnitus in female patients using a large-scale cohort design.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study utilized the TriNetX electronic health records network (2010–2022) to identify female patients with and without IDA, focusing exclusively on women to minimize occupational noise exposure confounding. We defined IDA as hemoglobin below 12 g/dL and ferritin below 30 ng/mL recorded within 3 months, while controls had levels above these thresholds. The primary outcome was new-onset tinnitus, and the secondary outcome was pulsatile tinnitus, both assessed at 1 and 3 years after the index date. After employing propensity score matching to balance baseline characteristics, we calculated the hazard ratio (HR) using Cox proportional hazards models and performed pre-specified subgroup analyses examining dose-response relationships by hemoglobin severity and age-stratified effects.ResultsIDA was associated with a significantly higher risk of tinnitus at 1 year (HR 3.78, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.60–5.50; incidence 15.7 vs. 4.2 per 10,000 person-years) and at 3 years (HR 2.52, 95% CI 2.11–3.02; 18.6 vs. 7.4 per 10,000 person-years). Pulsatile tinnitus risk was similarly elevated at 3 years (HR 2.25, 95% CI 1.42–3.57). A clear dose-response relationship emerged, with severe IDA (hemoglobin < 10 g/dL) conferring highest 1-year risk (HR 5.74, 95% CI 3.24–10.16). Age-stratified analysis revealed differential vulnerability: older women (> 45 years) showed greater susceptibility to general tinnitus (HR 4.55 vs. 3.26), while younger women demonstrated exclusive risk for pulsatile tinnitus.ConclusionIDA showed a significant dose-dependent association with new-onset tinnitus in women. These findings support routine IDA screening in women presenting with tinnitus and suggest that timely iron repletion may help reduce the risk of potentially preventable auditory dysfunction.

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of hearing loss among welders, grinders, and stampers in a district of Ningbo City, identify distinct subtypes of hearing loss, and explore associated risk factors. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using occupational health examination records and on-site environmental monitoring data from enterprises in a district of Ningbo City in 2023. A data-driven clustering approach with a Gaussian mixture model, was used to identify subtypes of hearing loss. Mixed-effects logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with hearing loss. The prevalence of hearing loss was 54.24% among welders (n = 695), 58.95% among grinders (n = 497), and 64.36% among stampers (n = 390). Increased age, male sex, high noise exposure, and employment within the Construction and Related Services were significant risk factors. Three subtypes of hearing loss were identified: Class 1 (mild, flat threshold elevation at 4-6kHz), Class 2 (steep threshold elevation at 3-6kHz), and Class 3 (elevation in speech-frequency ranges). Class 2 was the most prevalent and showed the strongest association with occupational noise exposure. Hearing loss is common among welders, grinders, and stampers, with stampers being the most affected. Class 2 audiometric pattern was consistent with noise - induced hearing loss. These findings highlight the need for targeted preventive measures in high-risk occupational settings.

This study aimed to assess the prevalence, severity, and functional impact of hearing loss (HL) in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Pakistan. A total of 400 participants, aged 12 to 70 years, were enrolled in the study, and data were collected using pure-tone audiometry (PTA) and the Hearing Handicap Inventory for Adults (HHIA). The results indicated that 18% of participants had some form of HL, with 22% meeting the criteria for disabling HL (≥35 dB HL). The severity of HL ranged from mild to profound, with 55% of participants exhibiting no measurable HL. Sensorineural HL was the most common type (60%), followed by conductive (24%) and mixed (10%) types. Bivariate analysis revealed that older age (≥60 years) and occupational noise exposure were significantly associated with HL ≥35 dB HL. The multivariable logistic regression model confirmed that age and occupational noise exposure were independent predictors of HL. Furthermore, hearing aid users reported significantly lower HHIA scores, indicating reduced psychosocial burden compared to non-users. This study highlights the need for early detection, public health interventions, and increased access to hearing aids, particularly in rural areas. The findings also demonstrate the importance of occupational noise control and workplace interventions to reduce the risk of HL in high-noise environments. The study contributes to the understanding of HL in Pakistan, offering valuable insights for improving hearing care accessibility and policy development.

This study aims to determine the (a) factors associated with self-reported hearing difficulty and (b) relationship of self-reported hearing difficulty with hearing aid use. This cross-sectional study was conducted among participants of the population-based Survey of the Health of Wisconsin cohort who self-reported hearing loss. Among those participants, self-reported hearing difficulty was measured using the Revised Hearing Handicap Inventory, screening version (RHHI-S). We used age- and sex-adjusted linear and logistic regression models, respectively, to evaluate associations of (a) demographic, hearing- and health-related factors with RHHI-S scores, and (b) RHHI-S scores with self-reported hearing aid use. Results are presented as regression coefficients or odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). This study included 137 participants, with a mean age of 63.7 (SD = 12.1) years, 48.2% male, and 24.3% Black race. Participants' mean RHHI-S score was 11.0 (SD = 10.9) points. Factors associated with higher RHHI-S scores included male sex (among participants ≥ 65 years), younger age of self-reported hearing loss onset, high school/GED education or less (among participants < 65 years), marital status (never married), tinnitus, history of dizziness or balance problems, and occupational noise exposure. The prevalence of hearing aid use was 23.2%. Every +2-point increase on the RHHI-S was associated with approximately 25% higher odds (OR = 1.25, 95% CI [1.12, 1.39]) of hearing aid use. Demographic, hearing-, and health-related factors were associated with RHHI-S scores, and higher RHHI-S scores were strongly associated with hearing aid use. Findings could inform the implementation of self-reported hearing difficulty tools in clinical and research settings. https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.30140890.

Evaluating the Association of Occupational Noise Exposure with Hypertension Prevalence in Public Transport Bus Drivers

Objective:This study aimed to investigate the effects of aircraft noise on pilots’ auditory perception and develop evidence-based control strategies.Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted between March 2021 and May 2024. Participants were divided into two main groups: a pilot group (n = 92) and a control group of 67 healthy individuals without occupational noise exposure. For subgroup analyses, the pilot group was further categorised into three subgroups according to aircraft type: helicopter (n = 28), fighter (n = 30) and passenger aircraft (n = 34). The Results section presents comparisons across four groups in total (control + three pilot subgroups). Hearing test data were used to evaluate the effects of aircraft noise on auditory perception and propose effective prevention and control strategies.Results:The control group included more females than the pilot group (P < 0.05). No significant difference in baseline data was observed among the three groups (P > 0.05). Significant differences were detected in the pure tone audiometry results of 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 3 and 4 kHz among the four groups (P < 0.001). The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in the 2–6 kHz band was significantly lower in fighter jet crews compared with controls (median difference range: 2.0–9.0 dB), with the largest difference at 6 kHz (Δ9.0 dB, χ2 = 91.37, P < 0.001). Helicopter crews also observed SNR reductions of approximately 5.5 dB at 4 and 6 kHz (P < 0.001). Only a slight decrease in the 2 kHz threshold was observed for the passenger aircraft crew (Δ0.5 dB, P = 0.002). We found no significant difference between the groups at 1 kHz (P = 0.794). Significant differences were noted in the Weinstein Noise Sensitivity Scale scores of the four groups (P < 0.001).Conclusion:Aircraft noise threatens pilots’ auditory health and flight safety, requiring integrated technical, protective and managerial control measures.