Adapting a Digital Tool to Promote Hearing Protection Among Farmworkers

Pilot Project

Key Facts

47%

Farmworkers face an exceptionally high risk of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL); estimated rates of hearing loss range from 36% to 47%

Project Summary

Farm work is loud – tractors, mowers, harvesters, and other equipment can damage the inner ear. Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent, but it’s also 100% preventable.

Wearing hearing protection (earplugs or earmuffs) every time you’re around loud equipment is the simplest way to prevent NIHL. Many farmworkers still go unprotected because protection isn’t provided, they don’t feel comfortable, or they haven’t been shown how to wear it correctly.

Spanish-speaking farmworkers face extra challenges. Some workers don’t receive safety information in Spanish, and communication with supervisors can be difficult. That makes it harder to use earplugs correctly and consistently.

What this new project will do

Update Training Materials

Update the video and materials using worker and manager feedback so they're practical, culturally relevant, and easy to use during regular safety meetings.

Evaluate Training Effectiveness

Evaluate whether the training improves correct earplug use (measured with a simple fit test), understanding of noise risks and hearing loss, and confidence in protecting one's hearing.

Build Community Partnerships

Work closely with a trusted farmworker advocacy group to build relationships, strengthen the research, and make sure the training is adopted and sustained.

Why This Research Matters

Hearing loss can seriously affect a person’s quality of life. Farmworkers are especially at risk, but they often don’t get the support they need. This research will:

Encourage managers to support hearing protection at work

Help farmworkers protect their hearing and stay healthy

Make safety information easier to understand and use

Build a long-term plan to improve hearing safety in agriculture.

By listening to farmworkers and working with their communities, this project aims to create lasting change and prevent hearing loss for thousands of people.

Pilot Project