Occupational noise-exposure and assessing hearing loss of nightclub workers in Tarakan city, Indonesia

Abstract

Background: Occupational noise-exposure is an important problem in the workplace. Nightclub is one sector of the entertainment industry that will grow rapidly in the future. Many overseas researchers indicate that nightclub workers are exposed to loud music constantly throughout the work shift, putting their hearing at risk.

Methods: A cross-sectional study with proportional random sampling was determined by the number of participants in each nightclub. A total 117 nightclub workers from 5 nightclubs were participated. Noise exposure level was assessed by sound level meter monitoring; and measuring hearing loss was done by audiometer. The other variables such as socio-demographic, individual factors, environmental factors, signs and symptoms were assessed by questionnaire and observation.

Results: The average noise at the nightclubs was 107.22 dBA where every employee worked more than 6 hours per day. A total of 104 respondents (88.9%) had hearing loss, while 13 respondents (11.1%) did not experience any hearing loss (normal). From 104 respondents who reported experiencing hearing loss, mostly at the level of mild (88 respondents), 15 respondents (moderate), and 1 (one) respondent in the level of severe.

Conclusion: There was no statistically sigificant relationship (p-value > 0.05) between noise exposure and hearing loss among nigthclub workers in Tarakan City, Indonesia; but multiple logistic regression analysis found that hobbies may cause hearing loss, habit of smoking, the acknowledge of noise and its effects, and also practical in taking care of ear healthiness are the factors which could the hearing disruption (p-value < 0.05). The routine inspection for ear healthiness, and rotation job system also are the effective solutions to prevent the hearing loss that should be applied by management of each nightclub. Also, the government could consider regularly conduct campaigns, provide training on occupational health, and routinely perform of noise measurements.