Hearing Loss: A Hazard of Working with Machines

By Priscilla Makafui Kuwornu

In Ghana, corn mill operators are struggling with hearing loss due to prolonged exposure to loud machinery.

Beyond supporting households, corn mills reflect the evolution of agricultural practices and community initiatives aimed at improving food processing and economic stability. But alongside these benefits, a new study has raised concerns about the hidden dangers posed by excessive noise from these machines.

A Pepper Grinding Machine

A study conducted by the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) revealed that corn mills in the Ablekuma North sub-metro of Accra produce noise levels far above the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Ghana’s permissible limit of 70 decibels (dB) for commercial areas. Measurements taken ranged between 90 dB and 106 dB. Even residents living 20 to 50 meters away were exposed to levels above the EPA’s 60 dB threshold for light commercial zones, Noise level.

The impact has been significant. Out of 250 residents surveyed, 200 reported irritation from the constant grinding noise, with sleep disturbance, especially in the afternoons, being the main complaint. Among mill workers, 25 out of 40 said they suffered from frequent headaches and hearing loss, while 30 were observed speaking louder than normal, a likely sign of noise-induced hearing strain.

Mawuli Amegah, an officer with the Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, confirmed the seriousness of the findings. “The noise level for a commercial area is 70 decibels, but when the machine was working, we recorded 79 decibels, and when it was off, 62 decibels. We can conclude that the noise level in this area is high. There is a need to regulate these local operators to protect public health,” he said.

An interview with Mawuli Amegah

Despite the risks, many operators downplay the dangers. Abdul Ibrahim, who has worked with corn mills for over 30 years, admitted he does not use any protective device. “I work freely without any problem,” he said. Others, however, acknowledged discomfort. Junior Appiah, an operator with five years’ experience, shared that he often felt ear pain and ringing sounds after turning off the machine but had never sought medical help.

Junior Appiah, a corn mill operator

Medical experts warn that such symptoms should not be ignored. Dr. Michael Damah, Head of the Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Unit at the University of Ghana Medical Centre, explained that prolonged exposure can cause noise-induced hearing loss, dizziness, and permanent ear damage. He recommended that operators undergo checkups every six months and use protective devices such as earmuffs, earplugs, or specialized headphones.

Some workers have taken precautions. Waris Mustafa, a pepper-grinding operator, said he now uses a headset after being advised on its protective benefits.

Corn mills may feed the nation, but unchecked noise pollution threatens to damage the hearing of those who operate and live near them. Experts stress that prevention through regular checkups and the use of protective gear is key to reducing the risks.