The Use of Hearing Protection Devices in South Africa: Exploring the Current Status in a Gold and a Non-Ferrous Mine

ABSTRACT

This study investigated mine workers' current use of hearing protection devices (HPDs) in South African gold and non-ferrous mining subsectors. A descriptive study design was employed using structured interviews.Ninety participants were interviewed. Descriptive statistics and the chi-square test were used to analyse data.All participants reported wearing HPDs; with custom-made earplugs being preferred by those with more years of work experience and used by those most at risk to noise exposure. Comfort; design and work-related communication were factors infl uencing use of HPDs. Relationships between participants' demographic factors and use of HPDs were not statistically signifi cant. Participants seemed reasonably aware of HPD importance which highlights progress. Findings further highlight the importance of occupational audiologists in improving hearing conservation programmes (HCPs) in this sector