Magnitude of occupational exposure to noise, heat and associated factors among sugarcane factory workers in Ethiopia, 2017

Background Industrialisation in Ethiopia is gaining momentum, with the objective of transforming the traditional, agriculture-dependent economy. However, occupational health and safety is not in place to address health risks. Objective Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the magnitude of occupational exposure to noise, heat and associated factors among Metehara sugarcane factory workers. Method To this effect, a cross-sectional study was employed involving 552 workers and using stratified random sampling techniques. Data were collected by a pre-tested, structured, interview-administered questionnaire and hazard and risk analysis checklist. Noise levels were measured by hand-held, model HD600 sound level meters. Heat levels were assessed using "heat stress (HT) 30" area heat stress monitors. Data were entered into Epi Info 7 software and exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Results The results show that 418 (75.7%) and 243 (44%) workers were exposed to excessive heat and noise, respectively. Lack of labour inspections and safety audits, lack of personal protective equipment, absence of job rotation and job dissatisfaction were associated significantly with adjusted odds ratios (AORs) at 6.74 (2.65, 7.12), 6.62 (2.48, 7.62), 2.13 (1.35, 3.36), 2.44 (1.31, 4.53) and 5.4 (3.22, 9.06), respectively. Occupational exposure to heat and noise were found to exceed occupational exposure limits. Hence, the prevention of occupational exposure targeted at the identified factors is crucial.