Abstract

In the course of setting up a rehabilitation programme for workers suffering from occupational hearing loss, it was observed that negative reactions at work, especially those on the part of peers, constituted a significant obstacle to rehabilitation. The development of appropriate rehabilitation programmes depends on an understanding of these reactions.

Quantitative and qualitative information were collected from a population of workers employed at a noisy factory in the CSST's (Commission de la santé et de la sécurité du travail du Québec, Québec Occupational Health and Safety Commission) Priority Group 3. The results confirmed the validity and consistency of the measurement tool, with the exception of the opinion scale. The responses indicated that workers do not fully comprehend the consequences of occupationally induced hearing loss, despite workplace information campaigns on noise and deafness. In addition, the behaviour patterns likely to help workers suffering from hearing loss or facilitate communication with them are generally unknown and not adopted.

The final phase of this project consisted of the collection of qualitative data from four discussion groups. The data from these groups provided clear confirmation of the survey results. Workers suffering from occupationally induced hearing loss also exhibit a significantly modified self-image and are severely threatened by the stigma associated with deafness, particularly in their noisy work environment. Discussion group participants identified a number of means of countering these phenomena, including information campaigns on the consequences of deafness and the formation of support groups.