Workers’ Awareness of the Impact of Noise Pollution on Hearing in  Duhok City

BERIVAN OTHMAN RASHID; ABDULSALAM MUHAMMED IBRAHIM; ALIND BANGEEN M.RASHID

BERIVAN OTHMAN RASHID College of Medicine
ABDULSALAM MUHAMMED IBRAHIM College of Medicine-University of Duhok, Kurdistan Region of Iraq
ALIND BANGEEN M.RASHID College of Medicine-University of Duhok, Kurdistan Region of Iraq

Keywords: Noise, Pollution, Workers, ONIHL

Abstract

https://doi.org/10.31386/dmj.2025.19.1.5

Abstract

Background and objectives. Noise has become a very important “stress factor” in the environment of man and it has been recognized as a factor contributing to hearing loss which ranks among the most common work-related illnesses. This study aimed to investigate workers’ awareness, in noise induced places, about the effect of noise on their hearing sensation, in order to make a policy paper for protecting them according to the results of this research,

Methods This is a cross-sectional study conducted among 100 workers from different noise inducing workplaces in Duhok city. The questionnaire was composed of close-ended questions on socio-demographics, sensorineural hearing loss complaints, knowledge of noise hazards and its prevention and attitude toward preventive measures.

Results Ninety-five percent of the participants reported one or more complaints related to occupational noise-induced (sensory-neural) hearing loss, (ONIHL). The distribution of complaints suggests a gradient of hearing impairment severity, with some individuals reporting up to seven different symptoms. Occupationally, half of the participants were from industrial areas, followed by construction, general streets, and hospitality sectors. Only 29% of workers had knowledge about noise pollution hazards, and 12% of those who were aware of personal protection aids actually utilized them. Employer-provided information and instructions on noise hazards and noise hazards prevention were scarce, with only 23% and 19% of workers receiving such guidance. Statistical analysis revealed significant correlations between complaints and age, sound level, distance from the sound source, and service duration, with r values of 0.43, 0.614, -0.443, and 0.352, respectively, all with p <0.001. Significant p values were also observed concerning the application of personal protection aids, provision of information about noise hazards, and instructions on noise hazards prevention by employers.

Conclusion This study underscores the need for increased awareness and proactive measures to protect workers from ONIHL in Duhok City. The significant correlations between ONIHL complaints and various factors emphasize the urgency for educational initiatives and stricter enforcement of occupational safety regulations to prevent hearing loss among workers.

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