Send Message
products
Blogs
Home > Blogs >
Company News About Noise Exposures in Different Mining Methods
Events
Contacts
Contacts: Mr. Zihao Yang   
Contact Now
Mail Us

Noise Exposures in Different Mining Methods

2024-07-12
Latest company news about Noise Exposures in Different Mining Methods

Mining operations, whether on the surface or underground, generate significant noise, which can pose serious health risks to workers.

 

 

The level of noise exposure varies depending on the extraction method and the equipment used.

 

 

Understanding these differences is essential for implementing effective noise control measures.

 

 

 

 

 

 

latest company news about Noise Exposures in Different Mining Methods  0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Surface Mining Noise Exposures

 

 

Surface mining operations, such as those in open-pit mining, often involve the use of heavy machinery that generates high noise levels. Among various surface coal mine operations, dragline equipment has been identified as producing the loudest sounds, ranging from 88 to 112 dBA. This high level of noise can significantly impact the hearing of workers if proper precautions are not taken.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Key Points:

 

 

  • Dragline equipment: Produces noise levels between 88-112 dBA.

 

 

  • Administrative controls: Such as rotating workers and scheduling noisy operations during less populated shifts, can help mitigate noise exposure.

 

 

  • Engineering controls: Including soundproof cabins and noise barriers, can also be effective in reducing noise levels.

 

 

 

 

latest company news about Noise Exposures in Different Mining Methods  1

 

 

 

 

 

 

Longwall Mining Noise Exposures

 

 

 

In longwall mining sections, certain equipment is known for its high noise levels. Stageloaders, which transport coal from the mining face, and shearers, used for extraction, represent some of the highest noise exposures. These machines are essential for the efficiency of the longwall mining process but also pose significant risks to the hearing of miners.

 

 

 

Key Points:

 

  • Stageloaders and shearers: Among the noisiest equipment in longwall mining.

 

  • Auxiliary fans: Can produce noise levels up to 120 dBA, which is extremely high.

 

  • Continuous mining machines: Generate noise up to 109 dBA.
  • Roof bolters: Can reach noise levels of up to 103 dBA.

 

 

 

 

latest company news about Noise Exposures in Different Mining Methods  2

 

 

 

Continuous Mining Noise Exposures

 

 

Continuous mining operations, which are a common method in underground mining, also involve the use of noisy equipment. Continuous mining machines and roof bolters are among the primary sources of noise in these settings. The noise levels from these machines can easily exceed safe limits, making it imperative to implement noise control measures.

 

 

 

Key Points:

 

 

  • Continuous mining machines: Produce noise levels up to 109 dBA.

 

  • Roof bolters: Can reach noise levels of up to 103 dBA.

 

  • Auxiliary fans: Among the noisiest equipment, producing up to 120 dBA.

 

 

 

Health Risks of Noise Exposure

 

Exposure to noise levels exceeding 90 dBA can lead to adverse effects on workers' hearing, including hearing loss and tinnitus.

 

 

Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can also cause stress and reduce overall productivity. Therefore, it is crucial to address noise exposures in mining environments.

 

 

 

Key Points:

 

 

  • Noise exposure: Exceeding 90 dBA can lead to hearing loss and other health issues.

 

  • Administrative controls: Such as rotating shifts and limiting exposure time.

 

  • Engineering controls: Including soundproofing and regular maintenance of equipment to reduce noise levels.

 

 

 

latest company news about Noise Exposures in Different Mining Methods  3

 

 

Noise exposure is a significant concern in both surface mining and underground mining operations. The type of equipment used and the method of extraction greatly influence the level of noise exposure.

 

 

 

 

 

For example, dragline equipment in surface coal mining, stageloaders, and shearers in longwall mining, as well as continuous mining machines and roof bolters in continuous mining sections, are among the noisiest equipment.

 

 

 

Implementing administrative controls and engineering controls is essential to mitigate the risks associated with high noise levels. By understanding the specific noise hazards associated with different mining methods, we can take proactive steps to protect the hearing and overall health of mining workers.

 

 

 

 

 

This involves not only adhering to mining cable standards and ensuring the use of certified equipment but also continuously monitoring noise levels and adopting best practices for noise management.

 

 

 

 

Incorporating certified products like underground mining cable, trailing cables, and reeling cables from reputable manufacturers ensures that the equipment used in mining operations meets stringent safety standards, ultimately contributing to a safer and healthier work environment for miners.