The Effects of Noise and Heat Strain on the Work Ability Index (WAI) among Rubber Factory Workers

Abstract

Introduction: Assessing the work ability and factors affecting it is essential in developing strategies for preventing damages and managing risks. This study aimed to investigate the simultaneous effect of noise level and physiological strain as well as individual characteristics on the work ability. Method: The population in this cross-sectional study included workers of a rubber factory. The TES noise dosimeter was used to examine individual exposure and the electro polar RS100 was used to measure physiological strain index (PSI). Individual characteristics and the work ability index were evaluated using the WAI questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 19. chi-square test, pearson correlation coefficient, and one-way and multiple ANOVA were used for data analysis. Results: The final modeling showed that age, exercising period, Equivalent Continuous Sound Pressure Level (Leq), PSI and employment status had significant correlations with the work ability index (p < 0.05). The modified r 2 for the obtained model was also calculated to be 0.483. Discussion and conclusion: Based on the findings, number of exercising hours, employment status, age, Leq, and psi are among the factors affecting the work ability index. Use of management and engineering controls are recommended to balance work environments exposed to noise and heat and improve the work ability index. Further, improving employment status due to creating a sense of stability and reducing stress as well as enhancing lifestyle quality can be effective in increasing the work ability index.

The Work Ability Index (WAI) in the Healthcare Sector: A Cross-Sectional/Retrospective Assessment of the Questionnaire

“…We have planned a further study to evaluate this possibility by analyzing, in addition to the WAI, levels of occupational stress, anxiety, and depression in male and female workers. In fact, the literature tells us that the WAI score is associated with occupational stress [ 43 , 44 , 45 , 46 ] and emotional factors [ 47 , 48 , 49 ]. The relationship between stress, psychiatric problems, and the WAI is complex and probably cyclical: according to the Stockholm County longitudinal study, after 4 years, compared to their colleagues, workers with a low WAI had an almost twice as high a rate of distress [ 50 ].…”

“…The combination of dimension values results in a total WAI score that can range from 7 (unable to work) to 49 (full work ability). Based on this score, an individual is classified into standard work ability categories of excellent (WAI [44][45][46][47][48][49], good (WAI 37-43), moderate (WAI [28][29][30][31][32][33][34][35][36], and poor (WAI ~27).…”

The Work Ability Index (WAI) in the Healthcare Sector. A Cross-Sectional/Retrospective Assessment of the Questionnaire

“…We have planned a further study to evaluate this possibility by analyzing, in addition to the WAI, levels of occupational stress, anxiety and depression in male and female workers. In fact, the literature tells us that the WAI score is associated with occupational stress [39][40][41][42] and emotional factors [43][44][45]. The relationship between stress, psychiatric problems and the WAI is complex and probably cyclical: according to the Stockholm County longitudinal study, after 4 years, compared to their colleagues, workers with a low WAI had an almost two-fold rate of distress [46].…”

Presenting a Signal to Noise Ratio Model Based on the Combined Effect of Sound Pressure Level/frequency, Exposure Time and Oral Potassium: Experimental Study in Rats

“…Noise is the most common physical occupational factor across the world and is the main source of physical injuries that are caused by work [1]. Numerous studies have shown that harmful factors in the workplace such as noise, vibration, and shift work and so on have detrimental effects on workers' health [2][3][4][5].…”