Effects of noise and vibration on farm workers.

A variety of significant health effects are associated with occupational exposures to noise and vibration, which are an integral part of many agricultural operations. Since vibrating surfaces represent one of the primary sources of noise, exposures to both types of physical stressors are commonly encountered. The effects of noise and vibration exposures may be exacerbated among farm workers because they tend to be more isolated than workers in other types of industry. As a consequence, access to health and safety information, medical care, and hazard control technology may be more restricted. Medical practitioners who serve the agricultural community must be aware of the consequences of exposures to noise and vibration. A primary duty involves conducting baseline and periodic examinations to catch diseases associated with such exposures at an early stage, when the condition is still reversible. In addition, the practitioner's role also includes prevention of disease through education of workers regarding the effects of noise and vibration and through helping specify procedures and strategies that will result in exposure reductions.