Seafarers' perceptions and attitudes toward occupational noise exposure and its health impacts in Canada: a mixed methods study

Hodroj, Fatima (2025) Seafarers' perceptions and attitudes toward occupational noise exposure and its health impacts in Canada: a mixed methods study. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

Prolonged exposure to noise levels above 85 A-weighted decibels [dB (A)] poses significant health risks for the working population at sea. This mixed-methods study, employing an online survey and semi-structured online interviews, was conducted to explore noise risk perceptions and self-reported noise-induced health problems. It aims to identify barriers and challenges in preventing noise-related health problems among seafarers in Canada. This study found that seafarers’ workplaces are noisy, and they often adapt to these environments with fatalistic behaviors. It also showed that safety concerns lead to the underuse of hearing protection, which is seen as a communication barrier. Seafarers reported both auditory and non-auditory health issues, highlighting barriers such as limited noise control measures, uncomfortable hearing protection devices, and inadequate training. This study showed that seafarers have moderately positive perceptions toward noise reduction and hearing loss prevention. They dislike loud noise and feel highly susceptible to hearing loss based on Health Belief Model indicators. Our study showed that 40% of participants self-reported hearing difficulties, with 52% showing some degree of hearing loss and 16% experiencing severe hearing loss based on the hearing screening inventory questionnaire. Approximately 45% of seafarers reported tinnitus, and 40% experienced unexpected balance problems, in addition to anxiety, stress, sleep disorders, loss of concentration, and fatigue. This study highlights the need for improved occupational health and safety regulation implementation and collaborative efforts to initiate noise-specific education programs to reduce noise and enhance preventive measures in the Canadian maritime sector.

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