Exposure to Noise from Agricultural Machinery: Risk Assessment of Agricultural Workers in Italy

Accidents and deaths at work are a persistent problem, with numbers still worrying. The agricultural and forestry sector is among the most exposed to work risks, with particular attention to noise risk from the use of agricultural machinery and operators. This study aims to analyze the exposure to noise risk during use of wheeled and tracked tractors, with or without a cab, as well as other operating machines. The analysis takes into account the parameters Lpeak (peak sound pressure values), LAeq.T (time-weighted equivalent noise exposure levels) and LAS (maximum and minimum values weighted according to the Slow time constant) in order to assess the noise impact and define strategies for improving the safety and health of workers. This study demonstrates that in multiple cases, the regulatory thresholds for the examined variables are exceeded, regardless of the presence of a cabin. Specifically, Lpeak values approach 140 dB, dangerous to human health, while LAeq.T levels are close to or, in some instances, exceed 87 dB. It is also verified that agricultural and forestry operators who mainly use crawler tractors have greater and constant exposure to noise compared to those who use tractors with a cabin.