In the heart of India’s mechanized quarries, a silent threat looms over rockbreaker operators, not from the rocks they break, but from the vibrations that course through their bodies. A recent study, led by P. Vikram from the Department of Mining Engineering at Dr. T. Thimmaiah Institute of Technology, has shed light on the severity of whole-body vibration (WBV) exposure among these workers, with significant implications for the energy sector.
The study, published in the journal ‘Discover Applied Sciences’ (which translates to ‘Discover Applied Sciences’ in English), evaluated WBV exposure across three different operating parameters, each with varying power and impact rates. The findings were stark. “All operators exceeded the exposure action value in all scenarios,” Vikram stated, highlighting a pressing occupational health concern.
The most alarming results came from the third operating parameter, where operators were exposed to vibrations exceeding the exposure limit value. This parameter, with an impact power of 54 HP and a rate of 280–300 blows per minute, posed the highest risk. Vikram noted, “Operators in this scenario not only exceeded the A(8) based exposure limit value but also the vibration dose value (VDV) based exposure limit value.”
The study used a seat pad tri-axial accelerometer to collect data, adhering to ISO-2631:1 standards and EU-2004 guidelines. The results underscored the importance of optimizing operating parameters to minimize vibration exposure. Operating parameter-1, with an impact power of 37.25 HP and a rate of 420–450 blows per minute, emerged as the least harmful, offering a safer working environment for operators.
The commercial impacts of this research are substantial. High WBV exposure can lead to severe health issues, including back pain, spinal disc degeneration, and other musculoskeletal disorders. These health concerns can translate to increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, and higher healthcare costs for companies. Moreover, the energy sector, which relies heavily on mechanized quarries for raw materials, stands to benefit from safer, more efficient operations.
Vikram’s research suggests that by adjusting operating parameters, companies can significantly reduce WBV exposure. This not only protects workers’ health but also enhances operational efficiency and reduces long-term costs. The study serves as a wake-up call for the industry, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to mitigate WBV risks.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the findings from this study could shape future developments in occupational health and safety. By prioritizing worker well-being and optimizing equipment performance, companies can pave the way for a safer, more sustainable future. Vikram’s research, published in ‘Discover Applied Sciences’, is a crucial step in this direction, offering valuable insights that could drive meaningful change in the industry.