Factors affecting hearing protector use among farmers.

Abstract

Most farmers are exposed to potentially hazardous noise levels through many of their work activities, such as working near or operating tractors, and in the farm shop. Rates of noise-induced hearing loss in this group are high. Although this condition is preventable through the use of hearing protection, rates of protective device use are low. A study was designed using the Pender Health Promotion Model (HPM) to identify factors affecting farmers' use of hearing protection devices (HPDs). Existing instruments designed to measure concepts from the HPM were modified for use with farmers through interviews, validity testing with an expert panel, and reliability testing with first a small (n = 36) then a second larger (n = 167) convenience sample of farmers recruited at regional farm shows. Model testing was conducted with the larger sample. HPD use among farmers was found to be low (17%), and not related to production type, occupational role, operation size, gender, or age. A logistic regression analysis identified interpersonal support, barriers, and situational influences as statistically significant predictors of this health behavior, correctly predicting 76 percent of the cases. Internal consistency reliability (measured by Cronbach's alpha or theta) of most of the newly-adapted instruments met an acceptable level (≥.70). Results of model testing were consistent with results of previous studies of HPM variables with worker groups. More research is needed to describe the sound intensity, spectral, and impulse qualities encountered by farmers in various farming activities. Although the characteristics of farm noise are not known, hearing should be protected through engineering methods to reduce noise when possible. When sufficient noise abatement is not feasible, farmers should consistently wear hearing protection whenever they are in a high noise environment. Information from this study can be used to design and evaluate interventions to promote HPD use among farmers and reduce the level of NIHL among this high-risk and underserved worker group.