Discomfort due to occupational noise exposure: A study of Indian mine workers

Purpose of the study Heavy earth machinery operators (HEMM) in mining environments are frequently exposed to high levels of occupational noise. Assessing noise-related discomfort is important for developing effective control strategies and improving worker health. This study evaluates noise-related discomfort among HEMM operators based on measured noise exposure in iron, limestone, and bauxite mines. Methodology A cross-sectional study was carried out among HEMM operators. A total of 143 operators participated in the study, including 44 from bauxite mines, 49 from iron ore mines, and 50 from limestone mines. Personal noise exposure was measured using Noise Pro DLX Type 2 noise dosimeters. The discomfort levels were estimated using Stevens' power law based on the regression equation proposed by Yu Huang et al. Results Results showed that equivalent continuous sound level (Leq) were 85.10 dB(A) in bauxite mines, 86.89 dB(A) in iron mines, and 85.42 dB(A) in limestone mines. The warning limit of 85 dB(A) was exceeded by 40.81% of operators in iron mines, 32.00% in limestone mines, and 36.36% in bauxite mines. In addition, 14.28% of operators in iron mines, 12.00% in limestone mines, and 9.09% in bauxite mines were exposed to noise levels above the danger limit of 90 dB(A). The mean discomfort levels were 4250 in bauxite mines, 4919 in iron ore mines, and 4433 in limestone mines. Furthermore, it was observed that the relative discomfort was 15.74% higher in iron ore mines and 4.31% higher in limestone mines compared to bauxite mines. Conclusion The study showed that HEMM operators are exposed to noise levels exceeding recommended limits, leading to increased discomfort. Implementing engineering and administrative controls can help reduce noise exposure and improve work efficiency among operators.