Increasing the Use of Hearing Protection Devices by Delegating the Right to the Workers

Abstract

Background: Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is one of the most common but absolutely preventable occupational diseases.  One of the measures to prevent and control noise's harmful effects in the workplaces is the use of hearing protection devices (HPDs) that workers do not often accept to use or do not use throughout the entire work shift.  Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of delegating the right to choose HPD to workers on the increase of the duration of using them. Methods: This interventional study was conducted on 60 male workers divided into two groups, intervention (n: 30) and control (n: 30), who were exposed to non-permissible sound levels during sampling. A questionnaire including BASNEF constructs was completed by both groups in two stages, ie, before intervention and 3 months after completion of the intervention delegating the right to choose HPD to workers. Durations of using HPD were recorded in two stages in intervention and control groups and compared. Data analysis was conducted by SPSS 22. Results: In intervention group, the number of workers who used HPDs full time was 0 (0%) before intervention and 16 (53.33%) after intervention. The duration of using HPDs significantly increased after intervention in intervention group than in control group. Conclusion: The intervention based on providing HPDs that are appropriate for the needs and wishes of workers and available as well as promoting their use in the work environment can persuade them to use such devices continuously.