Prevalence of Hearing Loss among Noise-Exposed U.S. Workers within the Utilities Sector, 2010-2019

Abstract Objective This study’s objective was to estimate hearing loss prevalence for noise-exposed U.S. Utilities workers. Methods In this cross-sectional study of a retrospective cohort, audiograms were examined for 1.3 million workers (13,595 within Utilities) from 2010-2019. Hearing loss prevalence, and adjusted risk as compared with a reference industry, were estimated. Results The hearing loss prevalence for noise-exposed Utilities workers (25%) was higher than for noise-exposed workers in all industries combined (20%). Some sub-sectors surpassed the prevalence for all industries combined and/or had adjusted risks significantly higher than the reference industry. The highest prevalence sub-sectors were Hydroelectric Power Generation (37%) and Steam and Air-Conditioning Supply (29%). Conclusions While often overlooked, noise-exposed workers in this sector have among the highest prevalences of hearing loss, and significantly higher risks. Increased attention and better hearing conservation strategies are needed.