Questionnaire-based algorithm for assessing occupational noise exposure of construction workers. Issue 3 (9th December 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lewkowski, Kate; McCausland, Kahlia; Heyworth, Jane S; Li, Ian W; Williams, Warwick; Fritschi, Lin
• Is Part Of: Occupational and environmental medicine. Volume 75:Issue 3(2018)
• Page Start: 237
• Page End: 242
• Publication Date: 2017-12-09
• Subjects: exposure assessment -- noise -- construction -- validation -- questionnaire; Medicine, Industrial -- Periodicals; Environmental health -- Periodicals; 616.980305
• DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2017-104381
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1351-0711

Abstract

Abstract : Objectives: Occupational noise exposure is a major cause of hearing loss worldwide. In order to inform preventative strategies, we need to further understand at a population level which workers are most at risk. Methods: We have developed a new questionnaire-based algorithm that evaluates an individual worker's noise exposure. The questionnaire and supporting algorithms are embedded into the existing software platform, OccIDEAS. Based on the tasks performed by a worker during their most recent working shift and using a library of task-based noise exposure levels, OccIDEAS estimates whether a worker has exceeded the full-shift workplace noise exposure limit (LAeq, 8h ≥85 dBA). We evaluated the validity of the system in a sample of 100 construction workers. Each worker wore a dosimeter for a full working shift and was then interviewed using the OccIDEAS software. Results: The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.81 (95% CI 0.72 to 0.90) indicating that the ability of OccIDEAS to identify construction workers with an LAeq, 8h ≥85 dBA was excellent. Conclusion: This validated noise questionnaire may be useful in epidemiological studies and for workplace health and safety applications.