Whole-body vibration measurement at the mining machinery operator's workplace in SMEs

Increased mechanization in mining results in a larger number of workers being exposed to longer durations of whole-body vibration (WBV). Occupational exposure to vibration is associated with an increased risk of musculoskeletal pain in the back, neck, hands, shoulders, and hips; the development of peripheral and cardiovascular disorders and gastrointestinal problems; and it may even increase the risk of developing certain cancers. In that aim, in this survey, whole-body vibration exposure levels were measured during the shift at 22 mining machinery operators' workplaces in 3 surface mining. A triaxial accelerometer V31 was used to measure vibration exposure. Measurements were conducted in accordance with the procedures described in applicable standards in the field. The results indicate that the observed workplaces exceeded the action limit values according to the EU Directive 2002/44/EC, as well as the lower limit values of health risks according to the ISO 2631 standard. The lower limit value of health risk according to the ISO 2631 standard was exceeded at 50% of machines. The action value of WBV according to the EU Directive 2002/44/EC was exceeded in 36% of machines. The dominant vibrations were indicated along the X and Y axes. Operators on bulldozers and loaders are most often exposed to the harmful influence of WB vibrations. Research indicates that there is a risk of harmful impact of WBV that needs to be prevented and highlights the need for further research to identify the most critical risk factors and develop effective prevention and protection strategies for mining machinery operators' workplace risks caused by vibrations.