A Research Methodology for Assessment of Whole-Body Vibration Exposure of HEMM Operators in Mines — An Approach

The main objective of this paper is to provide an approach to assess the exposure of Whole-Body Vibration (WBV) on the Heavy Earth moving Machinery (HEMM) operators and its impacts on Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) taking into consideration of various contributing factors. The WBV is measured using a human vibration analyzer. Anthropometric measurements along with postural assessment are carried out simultaneously. Data related to physical and physiological factors are evaluated using a questionnaire survey on personal, machine, work environment, and health parameters. After data collection, modelling, and analysis are done using a suitable machine learning tool to get a better knowledge of the occurrence of MSDs at workplaces. Various models are used in the literature for the assessment of risks faced by the operators exposed to WBV hazards. This modelling would help in identifying the role of contributing factors of WBV to inflict MSDs on the workers, with a view to either eliminate or minimize its detrimental effects. Adoption of this research methodology will help researchers to measure WBV, collect data on contributing factors, and to establish correlations with any type of MSDs using a suitable machine learning tool.