Analysis of noise pollution in an andesite quarry with the use of simulation studies and evaluation indices

Abstract

This paper presents the verification of two partial indices proposed for the evaluation of continuous and impulse noise pollution in quarries. These indices, together with the sound power of machines index and the noise hazard index at the workstation, are components of the global index of assessment of noise hazard in the working environment of a quarry. This paper shows the results of acoustic tests carried out in an andesite quarry. Noise generated by machines and from performed blasting works was investigated. On the basis of acoustic measurements carried out in real conditions, the sound power levels of machines and the phenomenon of explosion were determined and, based on the results, three-dimensional models of acoustic noise propagation in the quarry were developed. To assess the degree of noise pollution in the area of the quarry, the continuous and impulse noise indices were used.

Keywords:

• noise
• machines
• quarries
• acoustic model
• noise evaluation indices

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Funding

This paper is based on the results of a research task carried out within the scope of the second stage of the National Programme ‘Improvement of safety and working conditions' partly supported in 2011–2013 – within the scope of state services – by the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy. The Central Institute for Labour Protection – National Research Institute (CIOP-PIB) was the Programme's main co-ordinator.