Noise exposure assessment of non-coal mining workers in four provinces of China

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to understand the noise exposure of non-coal mines in China to take appropriate controls to protect workers' health. METHODS: An assessment of non-coal miners' noise exposures was conducted in four provinces in China. Individual noise exposure levels were measured, and the survey on the hearing protector device (HPD) equipment was administered. RESULTS: 423 noise dosimeter measurements were obtained, including drilling, blasting, ore drawing, transportation, winching, crushing, screening and ball milling, and auxiliary (air pressure, pump, and maintenance). A total of 31.9% of the individual noise levels (L(EX,8h)) exceeded 85 dB(A), and the median dosages of non-coal miners with high noise exposure were: excavation workers-89.1 dB(A), mill operators-88.7 dB(A), and crusher operators-87.0 dB(A). The noise dose of underground mine workers is higher than that of surface mine workers (P < 0.001). A total of 53.7% of non-coal mining enterprises are not equipped with HPD for workers, mainly small and micro enterprises. CONCLUSIONS: High levels of hazardous noise exposure are typical in non-coal mines. Noise exposure data can help to develop more feasible noise controls.