Proposal of Combined Noise and Hand-Arm Vibration Index for Occupational Exposure: Application to a Study Case in the Olive Sector

Abstract

In many production and industrial sectors, workers are exposed to noise and hand-arm vibrations (HAV). European directives have established the maximum limit values or exposure action values for noise and vibration independently. However, in many cases, workers who endure hand-arm vibration also receive high noise levels. This research suggests a procedure to aid the establishment of precautionary measures for workers with simultaneous exposure to both physical agents. This procedure defines a combined index based on the energy doses for both noise and HAV. From this combined index, the suggested methodology allows a recommended exposure time for workers with simultaneous noise and HAV exposure to be calculated. This methodology can be adapted to tackle the relative importance assigned to both agents according to the safety manager and new knowledge on combined health effects. To test this method, a measurement campaign under real working conditions was conducted with workers from the olive fruit-harvesting sector, where a variety of hand-held machinery is used. The results of the study case show that the suggested procedure can obtain reliable exposure time recommendations for simultaneous noise and HAV exposures and is therefore a useful tool for establishing prevention measures.

Modelling prevalence development in a population group exposed to vibration, and noise: Application to hand-transmitted vibration

“…This is supported by recent work in which a robust association between hearing loss and episodic white fingers has been found [10]. Recently, a combined noise and vibration exposure index has been proposed for occupational exposures [11]. The index constructs the sum of energy-like daily exposures to each physical agent, which together form the daily exposure, divided by their respective exposure limits.…”

Recent trends in reduction of hand arm vibration syndrome for agricultural handheld equipment: A review based on challenges and future directions

“…56 In the broader context of multiple sectors where workers endure both noise and hand-arm vibrations, a pioneering methodology integrating energy doses for both agents is proposed. 57 This method presents a combined index, allowing for recommended exposure time calculations for workers experiencing concurrent exposure. 57 Numerical calculations based on this methodology provide practical recommendations, highlighting the potential for its application in establishing effective prevention measures across sectors.…”

“…57 This method presents a combined index, allowing for recommended exposure time calculations for workers experiencing concurrent exposure. 57 Numerical calculations based on this methodology provide practical recommendations, highlighting the potential for its application in establishing effective prevention measures across sectors. 57 Lastly, an in-depth study in Pakistan evaluates the prevalence of Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) among farming communities.…”

“…57 Numerical calculations based on this methodology provide practical recommendations, highlighting the potential for its application in establishing effective prevention measures across sectors. 57 Lastly, an in-depth study in Pakistan evaluates the prevalence of Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) among farming communities. 58 Employing a comprehensive questionnaire and grading system, the study offers numerical evidence of the occurrence and severity of HAVS symptoms among farmers exposed to vibratory tools.…”