Research suggests that 75% of the population in any urban region faces noise pollution daily. Inhabitants in localities with mines and construction sites are exposed to near-constant vibrations and noise.
This implies that noise is no longer a secondary concern to most people. While efficiency and productivity are important when it comes to the mining sector, noise pollution should be reduced with the help of rock drills that have been designed to be environment-friendly.
At the same time, workers who run the mining and construction equipment face psychological and physiological impacts from being exposed to vibrations for extended periods. In fact, noise comes closely behind fine particulate matter in the list of most harmful environmental causes of illness such that only eight hours of exposure to 85 – 90 dBA is permissible for workers. Underground mines contribute heavily to the production of harmful vibrations and noise and 115 dBA is the advised upper limit to it.
Ways To Reduce Noise And Vibrations
- Getting the Right Equipment
With the advancements made in mining technology, it is relatively simple to find state-of-the-art equipment that has environment-friendly features. The GS571L by GME Drills is one such example where the vibrations produced are reduced thanks to the T-handle used. This model has noise-muffling features which dampen the drilling noise that usually crosses 85 dBA.
Besides, the parts of this rock drill are interchangeable with Atlas Copco RH571-5L, which reduces wastage due to tool replacement. There are other rock drills by the same manufacturer with noise suppression systems that do not allow noise to escape the structure and instead, direct the vibrations away from users. Proper research before choosing the tools will help you in making an informed decision.
- Using the Machines Correctly
That’s right, improper holding positions and usage of equipment like the top hammer rock drills can double the noise that is produced while mining. Rock drills used for surface mining are especially difficult to maneuver and by extension lead to the most noise.
These also produce excess vibration when the surface is hard to break into. Users can actively try to reduce this by educating themselves on the right ways to function these tools.
Models like the GEX12PS by GME Drills come with D-handles for easy hand-held rock drilling as well as have built-in air cushioning systems to reduce vibration. It also includes effective silencers that meet international guidelines while being precise in their function.
- Utilizing noise-muffling attachments
Most mining and construction equipment comes with built-in silencers these days. Yet, if this seems to be insufficient in reducing noise, it is advised to use external noise-mufflers, which can be attached to your equipment easily.
Summing It Up
More than being a nuisance that interrupts people’s routine work or peace, noise has many adverse impacts. Since site managers and workers cannot completely eliminate noise production, they can only aim to reduce it. Noise-muffling and vibration control features are integral for this.
Besides, GME Drills include other environment-friendly features like dust control and energy conservation. The mining and construction equipment of GME Drills aims to increase productivity and environmental performance without compromising user safety or the wellness of the site workers and other dwellers in the vicinity.
