Symptoms of Nervous System Related Disorders among Workers Exposed to Occupational Noise and Vibration in Korea

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between vibration and noise exposure in the workplace and certain nervous system related symptoms (NSRS) among Korean workers. Methods: Using data from the fourth Korean Working Conditions Survey, we investigated the influence of vibration and noise with three categories; none, mild, and severe, on sleep disturbance, overall fatigue, and headache/eye strain using logistic regression analysis with stratification by personal protective equipment (PPE) wearing status. Results: Severe noise/vibration exposure was associated in a dose-response fashion with NSRS; the odds ratios (ORs) for sleep disturbance, headache/eyestrain, and overall fatigue were 1.48/1.06, 1.46/1.26, and 1.56/1.28 for severe and mild noise/vibration exposure, respectively, compared with no exposure. Workers who did not wear PPEs were the most affected. Conclusions: Occupational exposures to vibration and noise are associated with NSRS. Additional longitudinal studies and tightened education and safety measures are warranted.