One-day measurement to assess the auditory risks encountered by noise-exposed workers. (October 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Venet, Thomas; Campo, Pierre; Rumeau, Cécile; Thomas, Aurélie; Parietti-Winkler, Cécile
• Is Part Of: International journal of audiology. Volume 53:Number 10(2014:Oct.)
• Page Start: 737
• Page End: 744
• Publication Date: 2014-10
• Subjects: Audiology -- Periodicals; Hearing disorders -- Periodicals; Deafness -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Hearing Disorders -- Periodicals; Hearing -- Periodicals; 617.8
• DOI: 10.3109/14992027.2014.913210
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1499-2027

Abstract

<abstract> <title>Abstract</title> <p>Noise is one of the most pervasive hazards in the workplace. Despite regulations and preventive measures, noise-induced hearing loss is common. The current reference test is pure-tone air-conduction audiometry (PTA), but this test cannot be used to detect early hearing loss. <italic>Objective:</italic> In this study, we assess one-day auditory fatigue using both PTA and efferent reflexes (ER) measured using DPOAEs associated with contralateral acoustic stimulation (CAS DPOAEs). <italic>Design:</italic> The noise exposure history, PTA, and ER detection were performed in seven different companies where the L_{EX, 8h} was 85 dB(A). Hearing was tested before and at the end of the working day. <italic>Study sample:</italic> Forty-six volunteers were selected to carry out this study. <italic>Results:</italic> After a single working day, a greater impact of noise was measured using ER thresholds than PTA or DPOAEs. ER measurements are objective, easy to perform, and do not require a sound-attenuated booth. <italic>Conclusion:</italic> Screening workers by periodically measuring ER thresholds using CAS DPOAEs helps detect early changes in hearing status, before the onset of noise-induced hearing loss. These tests can be readily applied as part of a hearing conservation program.</p> </abstract>