P-311 NOISE RISK ASSESSMENT AND HEARING HEALTH OF EMPLOYEES IN A WATER PRODUCTION COMPANY IN GABON

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Exposure to noise in the workplace is likely to affect workers’ health. In Gabon, a study carried out at a water production plant aimed to measure noise levels and assess the hearing status of exposed employees. Material and methods This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted over a one-month period at the plant. It focused on technical staff working in the plant, in contact with noisy machines. Noise levels were measured using a sound level meter, and each exposed worker underwent otoscopy and audiogram. The data were analyzed using EPI DATA3.1 software. Results A total of 54 agents, including two females, were included. The mean age was 42.3 + 4.2 years [24-59 years]. The average working day was 8 hours, and the average length of service was 13.23 years. Noise mapping in the machine rooms showed noise levels ranging from 85.7 to 107 dBA; the supervisory room had a noise level of 68 dB A. Personal protective equipment. was not worn systematically. Tinnitus (40.7%) and sleep disturbance (24.1%) were the most common symptoms. No otoscopy was pathological. The incidence of hearing loss was 11.1%. No occupational deafness had been identified. Discussion and Conclusion Noise levels in the technical rooms were high, requiring corrective action and insistence on the effective wearing of personal protective equipment. Key words: Noise risk, hearing health, water production company, Gabon