An ecological approach to hearing-health promotion in workplaces. (4th May 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Reddy, Ravi; Welch, David; Ameratunga, Shanthi; Thorne, Peter
• Is Part Of: International journal of audiology. Volume 56:Number 5(2017)
• Page Start: 316
• Page End: 327
• Publication Date: 2017-05-04
• Subjects: Hearing conservation -- behavioural measures -- noise -- health promotion; Audiology -- Periodicals; Hearing disorders -- Periodicals; Deafness -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Hearing Disorders -- Periodicals; Hearing -- Periodicals; 617.8
• DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2016.1271467
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1499-2027

Abstract

Abstract: Objective : To develop and assess use, acceptability and feasibility of an ecological hearing conservation programme for workplaces. Design : A school-based public health hearing preservation education programme (Dangerous Decibels®) was adapted for workplaces using the Multi-level Approach to Community Health (MATCH) Model. The programme was delivered in small manufacturing companies and evaluated using a questionnaire before the training and at one week and two-months after training. Study sample : Workers ( n = 56) from five small manufacturing companies were recruited. Results : There was a significant improvement in knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of workers at the intrapersonal level; in behaviour motivation and safety culture at the interpersonal and organisational levels; and an overall improvement in hearing-health behaviour after two months post-intervention. Conclusions : The developed programme offers a simple, interactive and theory-based intervention that is well accepted and effective in promoting positive hearing-health behaviour in workplaces.