<p>This study assesses whole-body vibration (WBV) exposure among 168 heavy earth moving machinery (HEMM) operators working in bauxite, iron ore, and limestone mines. WBV measurements were conducted in accordance with ISO 2631–1:1997 standards using a tri-axial seat pad accelerometer (SC-39A) to capture vibration data throughout an entire work cycle. Key exposure metrics, including the 8-h equivalent frequency-weighted root mean square (RMS) acceleration (A(8)) and vibration dose value (VDV), were calculated to evaluate health risks. Results revealed that WBV levels were significantly higher along the vertical (z) axis compared to the lateral (x and y) axes. RMS values showed that 62% of bauxite, 68% of iron ore, and 79% of limestone mine operators were exposed to WBV levels falling within medium- to high-risk categories as per ISO guidelines. Additionally, a considerable proportion of operators, 46.6% in bauxite, 39.2% in iron ore, and 42.3% in limestone mines, were at risk due to mechanical shocks. These shocks, often caused by rough terrain, large rock impacts, or sudden equipment movements, further amplify WBV exposure. Discomfort levels, estimated using Stefan’s power law, averaged 41 for bauxite, 57 for iron ore, and 40 for limestone operators, reflecting a considerable degree of physical strain. These findings highlight significant whole-body vibration (WBV) exposure among HEMM operators, which may contribute to long-term health risks, including musculoskeletal disorders and chronic discomfort. The study underscores the critical need for implementing targeted vibration control measures to protect the health, safety, and well-being of mining equipment operators.</p>

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Health Risk Assessment of Whole-Body Vibration in Indian Mining Operations

  • Sarang V. Dhatrak,
  • Gyanendra Singh,
  • Shivkumar S. Prajapati

摘要

This study assesses whole-body vibration (WBV) exposure among 168 heavy earth moving machinery (HEMM) operators working in bauxite, iron ore, and limestone mines. WBV measurements were conducted in accordance with ISO 2631–1:1997 standards using a tri-axial seat pad accelerometer (SC-39A) to capture vibration data throughout an entire work cycle. Key exposure metrics, including the 8-h equivalent frequency-weighted root mean square (RMS) acceleration (A(8)) and vibration dose value (VDV), were calculated to evaluate health risks. Results revealed that WBV levels were significantly higher along the vertical (z) axis compared to the lateral (x and y) axes. RMS values showed that 62% of bauxite, 68% of iron ore, and 79% of limestone mine operators were exposed to WBV levels falling within medium- to high-risk categories as per ISO guidelines. Additionally, a considerable proportion of operators, 46.6% in bauxite, 39.2% in iron ore, and 42.3% in limestone mines, were at risk due to mechanical shocks. These shocks, often caused by rough terrain, large rock impacts, or sudden equipment movements, further amplify WBV exposure. Discomfort levels, estimated using Stefan’s power law, averaged 41 for bauxite, 57 for iron ore, and 40 for limestone operators, reflecting a considerable degree of physical strain. These findings highlight significant whole-body vibration (WBV) exposure among HEMM operators, which may contribute to long-term health risks, including musculoskeletal disorders and chronic discomfort. The study underscores the critical need for implementing targeted vibration control measures to protect the health, safety, and well-being of mining equipment operators.