A pilot study to prevent hearing loss in farmers.

OBJECTIVE Determine the feasibility and outcome of a pilot program to increase farm workers' use of hearing protection when performing activities with high noise exposure. DESIGN The study was a quasi-experimental study. SAMPLE Eight intervention farmers and 17 comparison farmers participated in the study. MEASURES Before and after the intervention, farmers completed a survey to identify their frequency of use of hearing protection, and their beliefs about hearing loss and use of hearing protection. INTERVENTION The intervention consisted of noise assessments, educational sessions, mailed reminders with brochures, and placement of hearing protection on the farm. RESULTS The intervention was effective in increasing the use of hearing protection 1 and 2 months after the implementation of the program. CONCLUSIONS Hearing loss is a serious problem with farmers, and yet many farmers neglect to protect their hearing with the use of protection. The pilot study findings indicate that efforts to increase the use of hearing protection by farmers can be effective.