Farmers' work-day noise exposure

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to understand the extent of farmers' exposure to hazardous noise, and trial and test the ability of an on-farm noise audit report to improve awareness and preventative action towards farm based noise hazards.

Design: Visits were made to working farms where noise and dosimetry measurements undertaken. During return visits, the noise measurements were explained in a brief report. A follow-up questionnaire was implemented gathering feedback on the use or otherwise of the report.

Setting: Working farms in Western Victoria and SE Queensland including dairy, beef, wool, prime lamb and cropping.

Participants: Participants were 14 female and 37 male farm workers.

Interventions: Noise exposure assessment of daily activities through dosimetry; measurements of noisy tasks and machinery; supply and interpretation of a noise audit report.

Main outcome measures: Participants were supplied with a 'noise report' of their workplace together with an explanation of the report's meaning to farm workers.

Results: Men and women have similar at risk exposures. The average noise exposure was 1.09 Pa(2)h (LAeq,8h = 85.3 dB). This implies 163 000 Australian agricultural workers are at risk from hazardous noise. On-farm noise audit reports were a relevant and valuable feedback to farmers in relation to their potential noise hazards.

Conclusions: Of those measured 51%, and by extrapolation 163 000 Australian agricultural workers, have noise exposure levels greater than the recommended Australian Standard of 1.01 Pa(2)h (85 dB). Men and women are equally exposed. On-farm noise audit reports are an effective feedback to increase awareness and improve hearing health.

Keywords: farm noise; hearing loss; noise management; on-farm noise audit.