Exploring Gender Disparities in Noise Exposure and Hearing Protection in Nigerian Construction Sites.

Abstract

Occupational noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) remains a critical but under-addressed health issue in the construction industry, particularly in developing countries. Despite increasing participation of women in construction roles, gender-specific risks and disparities in noise exposure and hearing protection remain poorly understood. This study investigates gender disparities in occupational noise exposure, access to hearing protection devices (HPDs), availability of noise exposure and hearing conservation (NEHC) programs, and auditory health outcomes among construction workers in Lagos, Nigeria. A cross-sectional quantitative survey was conducted among 300 construction workers (280 males, 20 females) selected through purposive and cluster sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering demographics, noise exposure, HPD access and use, NEHC program availability, and self-reported auditory symptoms. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including Chi-square tests, were used for analysis. Male workers were significantly more exposed to frequent or constant noise (85.7%) compared to females (35.0%) (p = 0.008). HPD provision (9.3% males vs. 5.0% females) and training (3.2% males; 0% females) were limited and not statistically significant. Auditory symptoms were more prevalent among men (33.2%) than among women (10.0%), though the difference was not significant. NEHC programmes were largely absent (only 9% of sites), with minimal effectiveness reported. The study reveals substantial gender disparities in noise exposure and protection in Nigerian construction sites. Findings underscore the urgent need for gender-sensitive NEHC programs, improved regulatory enforcement, and inclusive occupational safety policies to address both exposure risks and training gaps in this male-dominated industry.