Occupational noise exposure is the most important modifiable risk factor for hearing loss in adults. The manufacturing industry has elevated levels of noise exposure that affect a large number of workers. The Brazilian norms state that noise and hearing function must be monitored, along with safeguards to protect workers, these are compulsory for all companies. However norms enforcement is weak and little is known about noise exposure distribution in the country. The purpose of this study is to investigate and summarize the distribution of noise exposure and use of hearing protection devices among workers in the manufacturing industry in Brazil. Among the manufacturing industry trends the minimum prevalence of noise exposure is 45%, and there are only a few data on the use of hearing protection device against hearing loss. Comparing available data from different industry trades, levels of noise exposure are higher in the logging and wood processing industry, together with a lower proportion of hearing protection device usage. The lack of data on work conditions, noise exposure and hearing protection limits the strength of hearing health among public health priorities in Brazil.
Noise; Industry; Noise-Induced Hearing Loss; Occupational Health
