Characteristics of miners’ working conditions in the surface mine of the mining and chemical complex in the Arctic region of the Russian Federation: cross-sectional (simultaneous) study

Abstract

INTRODUCTION. The development of rich mineral resources in the Arctic region of the Russian Federation (ARRF) is a strategic direction for the further economic development of the country. The study of the working conditions to prevent the development of an occupational disease and to preserve the health of workers, employed in the ARRF economy, are fully aligned with national priorities of the state policy.
 OBJECTIVE. To assess miner’s working conditions in the surface mine, located in the Arctic region of the Russian Federation.
 MATERIALS AND METHODS. Working conditions of mining dump truck, bulldozer, drilling machine, excavator drivers and blasting teams in the ARRF surface mine were examined with the use of sanitary description method as well as physical and chemical ones.
 RESULTS. Natural and climatic conditions around mining sites are adverse with some extremeness. Miners’ working conditions сcorrespond to class 2 and 3 of 1-2 degree of harmfulness on physical and chemical factors. Maximum permissible levels are most exceeded on noise and vibration ones as well as on the content of nitric oxide and formaldehyde in the cabin of dump bulldozers, and least – in the workplace of drilling machine drivers.
 CONCLUSION. To improve miners’ working conditions and preserve their health, it is necessary to develop and implement a comprehensive program of measures, adapted to the Arctic conditions, aimed at preventing occupational diseases and providing for the solution of sanitary-technological and medical preventive issues.