Tinnitus in air traffic controllers: a clinical-ergonomical pilot study

Acute hearing loss (AHL) and tinnitus are an increasing problem in the workplace. This report briefly describes the manifold causation of both diseases. A pilot study for the German air traffic control services (ATS) focussing on work-related stress as a risk factor is given as an example. In 1997 and 1998, an increased incidence of tinnitus was observed at Dusseldorf ATS centre. The employer immediately ordered technical and bacteriological investigations, but these could not explain the increase. Therefore, eight air traffic controllers (ATCOS) with tinnitus were subjected to a psychophysiological assessment. Intensity and frequency of the tinnitus were determined audiometrically. Blood pressure and saliva samples (for electrolyte and immunoglobulin A investigation) were obtained. An interview was developed in order to discover work-stress-related risk factors. Moreover, subjects reported potential primary diseases. Finally, interference in daily life was rated with a standard tinnitus questionnaire. The most obvious work-related risk factor was the backward rotating shift-system, which also allowed combined morning and night duty. Forward rotating systems without combinable duties are in preparation and partly in operation. Secondly, the high workload during both night and day probably contributed to the disease. To tackle this, a self-management and stress coping programme was developed. which has already led to a self-reported reduction of stress.