Relación entre la exposición al ruido y el estrés laboral: revisión de evidencia científica, enfoques teóricos y normativa en Seguridad y Salud en el trabajo.

Abstract

The objective of this research was to analyze the relationship between noise exposure and occupational stress by characterizing current regulations and available scientific evidence, identifying their scope, content, and existing gaps within the context of Occupational Health and Safety. A descriptive and analytical documentary review was conducted through the collection and analysis of national and international scientific literature, as well as current Colombian regulations related to occupational and environmental noise and psychosocial risk factors. The findings indicate that exposure to noise levels above 80–85 dB(A) is associated with activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, increased cortisol levels, activation of the sympathetic nervous system, and manifestations such as hypertension, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and symptoms of occupational stress. Additionally, psychological, cognitive, and psychosocial effects were identified in workers chronically exposed to noise. The regulatory analysis shows that current provisions, including the permissible exposure limit of 85 dB(A) for 8-hour workdays and the 80 dB(A) action level, focus primarily on the prevention of noise-induced hearing loss. In this regard, limited articulation is identified between the regulation of noise as a physical risk and its recognition as a factor associated with occupational stress and non-auditory health effects in workers.