The perception of state school teachers on the effects of occupational noise exposure on their health

Abstract

There is limited local research which addresses the effects of occupational noise on teachers. However, foreign literature indicates that noise levels in schools is higher than recommended by the WHO, and this leads to difficulties in hearing, and vocal misuse, amongst other health consequences. This study aims to identify the perception of state school teachers in Malta regarding the effects of occupational noise exposure on their health. This study included 77 teachers from kindergarten, primary, and secondary schools located in 4 different regions in the Maltese island. A self-developed questionnaire was disseminated to them which included questions related to their perception of occupational noise on their health. Furthermore, a sound level meter was used to measure noise levels in different areas of the participating schools. Findings from this study indicate that the noise levels present in the participating schools lead to teachers raising their voice to an uncomfortable level to be heard by the students, increased irritability, decreased concentration and negative effects on mood. Furthermore, noise levels in schools and classrooms were highest in primary schools. This study investigated an under-researched area in the local literature and identified the consequences occupational noise can have in teachers. These findings can help inform possible changes in the school environment to reduce the repercussions of occupational noise on teachers’ health.