Factors associated with noise-induced hearing loss among workers in a wood processing factory in Pathum Thani Province
Keywords:
Hearing test, Sound level assessment, Noise induced hearing loss, Wood processing factoryAbstract
This cross-sectional descriptive study aimed to investigate hearing loss and identify factors associated with noise-induced hearing loss among workers at a wood processing factory in Pathum Thani Province. The study included 112 wood processing workers. Data were collected using an audiolyzer, sound level meter, and questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test.
The results revealed that the majority of the wood processing workers had abnormal hearing (59.8%). The 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) noise levels in the workspace ranged from 63.5 dB(A) to 87.9 dB(A). Two areas exceeded the legal limit of 85 dB(A): the Sawing Department (87.9 dB(A) and the Trimming and Sharpening Department (85.6 dB(A). Furthermore, age (p-value = 0.002), work experience (p-value = 0.036), and the use of hearing protection devices (p-value = 0.044) were significantly associated with noise-induced hearing loss at the 0.05 significance level. The research findings highlight the importance of enhancing the work environment to mitigate noise exposure, educating and training workers on the proper use of hearing protection devices, and conducting regular hearing assessments to prevent hearing loss among workers in wood processing factories.
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