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Noise exposure in oil mills
G V Prasanna Kumar1, K N Dewangan, Amaresh Sarkar
1North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology, Nirjuli - 791 109, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
|December 31, 2009
Summary
Occupational noise in oil mills poses a significant health hazard, with over 26% of workers exposed to levels above 85 dBA. Poor machine maintenance, particularly of the drive system, is the primary cause of excessive noise.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Industrial Hygiene
- Acoustics
Background:
- Machine noise in agro-based industries is a major occupational hazard.
- Oil mills present a significant risk due to high noise levels.
- Identifying noise sources and causes is crucial for mitigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- Identify predominant noise sources in oil mill workrooms.
- Investigate the causes of high noise levels.
- Measure worker noise exposure and assess their responses.
- Inform measures to minimize noise exposure.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a noise survey in three oil mills in North-East India.
- Measured equivalent sound pressure levels (SPL) using a Sound Level Meter (SLM).
- Collected machine and workroom data; conducted worker interviews for subjective assessment.
Main Results:
- 26% of workers exposed to noise levels exceeding 85 dBA.
- Predominant noise sources identified as seed cleaners and power transmission systems.
- Poor machine maintenance, especially drive systems, caused high noise.
- 63% of workers reported conversational interference; others noted work interference and hearing concerns.
Conclusions:
- Oil mill workers face detrimental health risks from high noise exposure.
- Poor maintenance of the drive system is the primary contributor to elevated noise levels.
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