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Using ergonomics to enhance safe production at a surface coal mine--a case study with powder crews
Janet Torma-Krajewski1, William Wiehagen, Ann Etcheverry
1Pittsburgh Research Laboratory, National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, Arvada, Colorado, USA.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene
|July 24, 2009
Summary
This study identified mining tasks with high work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD) risk factors. Proposed prill truck design changes aim to reduce injury risk and improve safety for mining workers.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Ergonomics
- Mining Engineering
Background:
- Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) pose significant risks in mining, leading to injuries and production downtime.
- Common risk factors include forceful exertions, awkward postures, vibration, and environmental extremes.
- Understanding worker-perceived risk is crucial for effective intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and rank routine mining tasks based on perceived exposure to WMSD risk factors.
- To propose specific design modifications for prill trucks to mitigate identified risks.
- To enhance worker safety and reduce injury incidence in mining operations.
Main Methods:
- Collaboration with powder crew members at Bridger Coal Company.
- Qualitative assessment and ranking of work tasks by perceived WMSD risk exposure.
- Development of targeted design changes for prill trucks focusing on specific task areas.
Main Results:
- Identification of high-risk tasks associated with WMSD factors in mining.
- Specific design recommendations for prill trucks, including improvements for cab ingress/egress, blast hole loading, and upper deck access.
- A framework for worker-involved risk assessment and mitigation.
Conclusions:
- Worker perception is valuable in identifying high-risk WMSD tasks in mining.
- Targeted engineering controls, such as improved prill truck design, can effectively reduce exposure to WMSD risk factors.
- Proactive risk reduction strategies are essential for mining safety.
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