IRSST - Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail

Evaluation of the vibration and noise from mining equipment

Abstract

Underground mines in Québec employ more than 5,000 workers, with some being exposed to many sources of noise and vibration in carrying out their functions. Claims for health problems related to overexposure to hand-arm vibration have increased considerably in recent years. Furthermore, 458 miners were compensated for occupational deafness from 1998 to 2003. Since the vibration and sound level of some mining equipment is not documented, it is not considered when choosing equipment or planning tasks. The researchers will determine the different sources of vibration and sound that can have a harmful effect on miners’ health and will measure their amplitude. They will thus be able to define the actions to be taken to minimize worker exposure to noise and vibration, including technical solutions. They will also produce an awareness-raising and information document that will propose means for reducing exposure to noise and vibration in mines.

Additional Information

Type: Project
Number: 0099-7060
Status: Completed
Year of completion: 2010
Team:
  • Marcel Laflamme (Centre canadien de la technologie des minéraux et de l'énergie)
  • Pierre Marcotte (IRSST)
  • Hugues Nélisse (IRSST)
  • Jérôme Boutin (IRSST)
  • Sylvain Ouellette (Centre canadien de la technologie des minéraux et de l'énergie)
  • Gilles Leblanc (Centre canadien de la technologie des minéraux et de l'énergie)