Abstract
The main aim of this paper is to assess present scenarios of occupational noise exposure of the operators of a popular category of SDL in Indian underground coal mines and to develop a statistical model for prediction of occupational noise exposure to the SDL operators using machine age as an independent variable. Eighty SDL machines were selected randomly from 18 different mines. Machines working hour were monitored and recorded for all 18 mines. Full shift noise dose (TWA) was measured for the operator of each machine. Regression analysis was performed to develop the statistical model. Validity of the model was verified. The subjects are exposed to occupational noise ranging from 74 to 100.4 dBA TWA. The operator's TWA increases with increase in machine age. A fifth order polynomial equation describes the relationship between machine age and TWA. In a validation study, it was found that the predictive model works in the field on similar machines. The SDL operators are exposed to occupational noise generated, which ranges from 74 to 100.4 dBA TWA. The TWA increases with increase in the machine age. There exists a non linear relation between the SDL age and the corresponding TWA. The predictive statistical model developed in this study works satisfactorily in the field, hence the same is recommended for selected class of SDL machines deployed in Indian underground coal mines.