Evaluation of occupational noise exposure and general health of workers in industrial sites: A case study

BACKGROUND: Occupational noise exposure in workplaces is the most common detrimental factor that has the greatest impact on the health of people working there. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate occupational noise exposure and its relation to the general health status in industrial workers in Sanandaj, Iran. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted on the general health of 500 male workers in Sanandaj using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28). Likewise, occupational noise exposure was measured based on sound pressure level (SPL) and dosimetry in the work and rest conditions of workers. RESULTS: The results showed poor general health status of workers, exceeded the daily working hours and also the standard range of sound. A significant correlation was found between general health and its dimensions with indicators of workplace sound pressure levels (P < 0.05). This means that with the increase in sound pressure level is worse general health status. CONCLUSION: It seems that the health of workers in these industries is an inappropriate process due to exposure to occupational noise exposure and poor conditions of the workplace. A high percentage of them will lose their health in case of non-implementation of prevention programs and health in the workplace in the future.