One-day measurement to assess the auditory risks encountered by noise-exposed workers

Abstract

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. Objective: 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). Design: 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. Study sample: Forty-six volunteers were selected to carry out this study. Results: 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. Conclusion: 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.

Key Words::

• Otoacoustic emissions
• middle ear
• noise
• instrumentation

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Aurélie Rémy and Pascal Wild, statisticians at INRS, who designed and performed all the statistical analyses.

Declaration of interest: This research was totally funded by INRS. The authors report no conflict of interest.