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Mining Publication: Snapshot of Noise and Worker Exposures in Sand and Gravel Operations
Keywords: Hearing loss Noise Sand and gravel mining Sound level
Original creation date: March 2008
Authors: ER Bauer, ER Spencer
Peer Reviewed Journal Article - March 2008
Download PDF Document (0.93 MB)
NIOSHTIC2 Number: 20033395
Min Eng 2008 Mar; 60(3):50-57
Previous studies and research efforts have shown that noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a problem in the U.S. mining industry. In response, researchers at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) have been conducting a cross-sectional survey of equipment noise and worker noise exposures in the mining industry to estimate the potential for NIHL within the mining community. One commodity recently surveyed was the extraction of sand and gravel from surface pits and by dredging. To address the potential for NIHL in the sand and gravel industry, sound levels on and around the dredges and processing equipment were recorded to identify areas of high noise levels. Full-shift worker dosimetry, in conjunction with task observations, was documented to determine the relationship between exposure and source. This paper presents research examining noise on dredges used in several surface mine sand and gravel operations and in the processing facilities. Results indicate that there are areas on the dredges (crane, suction pumps and diesel engines) where sound levels greater than 90 dB(A) are present. In addition, crushers and screens used in the processing of the sand and gravel also generate sound levels greater than 90 dB(A). Although no surveyed worker exceeded the Mine Safety and Health Administration’s (MSHA’s) permissible exposure level (PEL) of 90 dB(A) eight-hour time-weighted average (TWA8), laborers, mechanics, oilers, helpers, pickers and greasers are the workers most likely to be exposed to hazardous sound levels and to thus develop NIHL over time.
Image of publication Snapshot of Noise and Worker Exposures in Sand and Gravel OperationsPeer Reviewed Journal Article - March 2008
Download PDF Document (0.93 MB)
NIOSHTIC2 Number: 20033395
Min Eng 2008 Mar; 60(3):50-57
See Also
Application of a Microphone Phased Array to Identify Noise Sources on a Roof Bolting Machine
Cross-Sectional Survey of Noise Exposure in the Mining Industry
Determination of Sound Exposures (DOSES): Software Manual and Implementation Guide
Limestone Mining: Is It Noisy or Not?
Noise and Hearing Protection: Development of Two Training Exercises for Drillers
Noise Control in Underground Metal Mining
Technology News 536 - NIOSH Develops New Software to Analyze and Reduce Noise Exposure
Water Well Safety Bits: Health And Safety Information For The Water Well Industry
What Does a Hearing Loss Sound Like?
Working in Noise with a Hearing Loss: Perceptions from Workers, Supervisors, and Hearing Conservation Program Managers
Page last reviewed: September 21, 2012
Page last updated: September 21, 2012
Content source: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Mining Program
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