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Peyre-Costa D, Stjernbrandt A, Wahlström J, Ikäheimo TM, Höper AC. Self-reported exposure to dust and diesel exhaust, respiratory symptoms, and use of respiratory protective equipment among Arctic miners. Int J Circumpolar Health 2024; 83:2343125. [PMID: 38626426 PMCID: PMC11022915 DOI: 10.1080/22423982.2024.2343125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Arctic miners face significant risks from diesel exhaust and dust exposure, potentially leading to adverse respiratory health. Employers must limit harmful exposures, using personal protective equipment (PPE) as a last line of defense. This study explored the association between reported respiratory exposure and symptoms, and PPE training and usage. Data from the MineHealth study (2012-2014) included a total of 453 Arctic open pit miners in Norway, Sweden, and Finland. Participants answered questions on exposure to dust and diesel exhaust, respiratory symptoms, and PPE use, in addition to age, gender, BMI, smoking, and self-rated health. Estimated exposure to dust was common, reported by 91%, 80%, and 82% and that of diesel exhaust by 84%, 43%, and 47% of workers in Sweden, Finland, and Norway, respectively. Reported dust exposure was significantly related to respiratory symptoms (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.3-3.7), diesel exposure increased the occurrence of wheezing (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.3-5.4). PPE use varied between the studied mines. Non-use was common and related to reduced visibility, wetness, skin irritation and fogging of the respiratory PPE. Future research should employ more precise exposure assessment, respiratory function as well as explore the reasons behind the non-compliance of PPE use.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Peyre-Costa
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Albin Stjernbrandt
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Jens Wahlström
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Tiina Maria Ikäheimo
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Research Unit of Population Health, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Anje Christina Höper
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
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Stjernbrandt A, Johnsen M, Liljelind I, Aminoff A, Wahlström J, Höper AC, Pettersson H, Nilsson T. Neurosensory and vascular symptoms and clinical findings in the hands of Arctic open-pit miners in Sweden and Norway - a descriptive study. Int J Circumpolar Health 2023; 82:2254916. [PMID: 37669310 PMCID: PMC10481761 DOI: 10.1080/22423982.2023.2254916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This cross-sectional study aimed to describe exposure to cold climate and hand-arm vibration (HAV) as well as neurosensory and vascular symptoms and clinical findings among open-pit Arctic miners. It was based on data from questionnaires and physical examinations, including 177 men and 75 women from two open-pit mines in Sweden and Norway (response rate 54%). Working outdoors or in an unheated building or machine for at least two hours per day was reported by 44% and HAV exposure of the same duration by 10%. Neurosensory symptoms (e.g. reduced perception of touch) in the hands were reported by 47% and Raynaud's phenomenon by 14%. In brief conclusion, the study showed that Arctic miners were commonly exposed to both cold temperatures and HAV. They also reported a broad range of neurosensory and vascular symptoms in their hands and had abnormal clinical findings related to the symptoms. The results emphasise the need for additional preventive measures in this occupational setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albin Stjernbrandt
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Magnar Johnsen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Ingrid Liljelind
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Anna Aminoff
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Jens Wahlström
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Anje Christina Höper
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Hans Pettersson
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Tohr Nilsson
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Smith TD, Balogun AO, Dillman AL. Management Perspectives on Musculoskeletal Disorder Risk Factors and Protective Safety Resources within the Stone, Sand, and Gravel Mining Industry. Workplace Health Saf 2022; 70:242-250. [PMID: 35438012 DOI: 10.1177/21650799221089196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are problematic in many industries, including stone, sand, and gravel mining (SSGM). This research aimed to delineate MSD risk factors and to identify protective safety resources that reduce MSD within these operations. METHODS A deductive content analysis of recorded transcripts from a focus group, which included professionals working in SSGM organizations, was completed. FINDINGS Results suggested demographic and personal factors associated with MSD included age, lack of experience, low levels of physical fitness, and attitudes toward risks. Work factors and job demands included excessive lifting, performing additional job duties, production-focused operations, lack of resources, and work related to maintenance and equipment operation. Suggested safety resources included a focus on worker fitness, resource adequacy, pay and benefits, the SLAM (Stop, Look, Analyze, and Manage) process and positive safety culture. CONCLUSION This qualitative research project utilized mine experts to identify demographic, personal, work, and job demand factors they perceive or know to be associated with MSD. Safety programs suggested by these same experts to reduce MSD were also presented. APPLICATION TO PRACTICE Occupational health and safety practitioners and mine administrators should focus on the identified factors in their work to prevent MSD within SSGM operations. Safety efforts need to include integrated programs that promote health and fitness as well. These efforts should be implemented along with recommended programs such as SLAM and the provision of appropriate safety resources to minimize risks. These efforts should promote the importance of safety and will help with bolstering a positive safety culture.
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Syurin SA, Kovshov AA, Odland JØ, Talykova LV. Retrospective assessment of occupational disease trends in Russian Arctic apatite miners. Int J Circumpolar Health 2022; 81:2059175. [PMID: 35369857 PMCID: PMC8979501 DOI: 10.1080/22423982.2022.2059175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
For many years in Russia, apatite ore mining has been associated with high levels of occupational morbidity. The aim of the study was to retrospectively assess occupational disease trends in Russian Arctic apatite miners. We analysed data from routine health screening of 2 649 underground apatite miners in 2007 and data of social-hygienic monitoring “Working conditions and occupational morbidity” in 2008–2020. In 2007, according to the results of routine health screening, 6 778 chronic diseases were diagnosed in 2 649 miners, the most prevalent being musculoskeletal (34.4%) and eye (16.0%) diseases. In the next 13 years, 572 occupational diseases were first diagnosed in 300 (11.3%) miners, most prevalent being musculoskeletal diseases (47.2%). The risk of developing occupational diseases in tunnellers exceeded that in all other miners, including timber-men (RR = 1.56; CI 1.06–2.30), vibration-loading machine operators (RR = 1.67; CI 0.99–2.80), drillers (RR = 1.51; CI 1.08–2.11) and blasters (RR = 2.12; CI 1.55–2.84). We conclude that ongoing modernisation of ore mining processes and medical preventive measures should include more effective health-improving interventions for underground apatite miners. Findings from the analysis of data can be used by health professionals and policy makers to address these problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergei A. Syurin
- Arctic Environmental Health Department, Northwest Public Health Research Center, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Aleksandr A. Kovshov
- Arctic Environmental Health Department, Northwest Public Health Research Center, St. Petersburg, Russia
- Department of Hygiene of Educational, Training, Labor Conditions and Radiation Hygiene, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, North-Western State Medical University Named after I.I. Mechnikov, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Jon Ø. Odland
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Institute of Ecology, HSE University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Lyudmila V. Talykova
- Arctic Environmental Health Department, Northwest Public Health Research Center, St. Petersburg, Russia
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Whole-Body Vibration Exposure vis-à-vis Musculoskeletal Health Risk of Dumper Operators Compared to a Control Group in Coal Mines. Saf Health Work 2021; 13:73-77. [PMID: 35936203 PMCID: PMC9348998 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2021.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Whole-body vibration (WBV) exposure of coal mine dumper operators poses numerous health hazards. The case-control study was aimed at assessing the relative musculoskeletal health risk of dumper operators' exposure to WBV with reference to the nonexposed group. Methods Measurements of WBV exposure were taken at the operator–seat interface using a human vibration analyzer for 110 dumper operators in three coal mines. This vibration measurement was supplemented by a questionnaire survey of 110 dumper operators exposed to WBV and an equal number of workers not exposed to WBV. The relative risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) has been assessed through the case-control study design. Results ISO guidelines were used to compare the health risk. It was observed that the prevalence of pain in the lower back was 2.52 times more in the case group compared to the control group. The case group of Mine-2 was 2.0 times more prone to vibration hazards as compared to Mine-3. Conclusion The case group is more vulnerable to MSDs than the control group. The on-site measurement as well as the response of the dumper operators during the questionnaire survey corroborates this finding.
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Kia K, Fitch SM, Newsom SA, Kim JH. Effect of whole-body vibration exposures on physiological stresses: Mining heavy equipment applications. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2020; 85:103065. [PMID: 32174353 PMCID: PMC8117724 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2020.103065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to employ validated biological markers to quantify the physiologic consequences of exposure to whole-body vibration (WBV) and evaluate the relative impact of mining vehicle operator vibration exposure on physiological responses as compared to vertical-axial dominant WBV. In a laboratory-based study with a repeated-measures design, we played actual field-measured floor vibration profiles into a 6-degree-of-freedom motion platform to create different realistic WBV exposures: 1) vertical-dominant vibration collected from long-haul trucks, 2) multi-axial vibration collected from mining heavy equipment vehicles, and 3) no vibration (control condition). Circulating biomarkers of interest were cortisol and catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine) to assess physiological stress, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) to test for inflammation, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) to measure oxidative stress, and myoglobin and plasma creatine kinase to assess muscle damage. We collected blood samples at pre-exposure (0 h), during-exposure (2 and 4 h), and 2 h into recovery after the WBV exposure (6 h) in all four exposure conditions. The results showed that a single, 4-h acute exposure to WBV may not be sufficient to induce skeletal muscle damage, inflammation or physiologic stress measurable in the blood. No significant differences were observed between conditions for any of the biomarkers that could be attributed to the exposure contrast between vertical-dominant and multi-axial WBV exposures. These findings further indicate known complications of WBV exposure likely arise secondary to chronic, repeated exposures that give rise to subclinical stresses that were not captured here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiana Kia
- School of Mechanical, Industrial, and Manufacturing Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Stephanie M Fitch
- School of Biological and Population Health Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Sean A Newsom
- School of Biological and Population Health Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Jeong Ho Kim
- School of Biological and Population Health Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA.
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Stewart AG. Mining is bad for health: a voyage of discovery. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2020; 42:1153-1165. [PMID: 31289975 PMCID: PMC7225204 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-019-00367-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Mining continues to be a dangerous activity, whether large-scale industrial mining or small-scale artisanal mining. Not only are there accidents, but exposure to dust and toxins, along with stress from the working environment or managerial pressures, give rise to a range of diseases that affect miners. I look at mining and health from various personal perspectives: that of the ordinary man (much of life depends on mined elements in the house, car and phone); as a member of the Society for Environmental Geochemistry and Health (environmental contamination and degradation leads to ill health in nearby communities); as a public health doctor (mining health is affected by many factors, usually acting in a mix, ranging from individual inheritance-genetic makeup, sex, age; personal choices-diet, lifestyle; living conditions-employment, war; social support-family, local community; environmental conditions-education, work; to national and international constraints-trade, economy, natural world); as a volunteer (mining health costs are not restricted to miners or industry but borne by everyone who partakes of mining benefits-all of us); and as a lay preacher (the current global economy concentrates on profit at the expense of the health of miners). Partnership working by academics with communities, government and industry should develop evidence-based solutions. Employment, health, economic stability and environmental protection need not be mutually exclusive. We all need to act.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex G Stewart
- College of Life and Environmental Science, University of Exeter, Exeter, EX4 4RJ, UK.
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Lynas D, Burgess-Limerick R. Whole-Body Vibration Associated with Dozer Operation at an Australian Surface Coal Mine. Ann Work Expo Health 2019; 63:881-889. [PMID: 31278408 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxz054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Bulldozers are used extensively on surface mine sites and have been previously identified as being associated with high amplitude whole-body vibration exposures. Previous investigations of this equipment have involved either a very small number of measurements, or measurements of very short duration (or both); or the data obtained were incompletely reported. This research reports 69 measurements (median duration 440 min) obtained from 15 different dozers during operation at a surface coal mine. More than one-third of vertical vibration measurements exceeded the ISO2631.1 Health Guidance Caution Zone when expressed as VDV(8). Considerable variability in measurement amplitudes was found. This was also true within measurements obtained from the same dozers on different shifts suggesting, by a process of elimination, that the remaining variability in whole-body vibration amplitude is a function of some combination of task characteristics, geology, and operator behaviour; rather than equipment-related variability, such as maintenance, suspension, seating, or track design. Short-comings in the evaluation methods provided by ISO2631.1 are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danellie Lynas
- Minerals Industry Safety and Health Centre, Sustainable Minerals Institute, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Robin Burgess-Limerick
- Minerals Industry Safety and Health Centre, Sustainable Minerals Institute, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
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