Experimental study of the influence of coal mine noise on miners

Abstract

This study explored the influence of underground noise on coal miners' physiological indexes and behavior ability. A system was constructed to measure a miner's physiological indicators and behavioral capacity. This measurement system mainly involved the behavioral and physiological indicators tester, the response tester, and the noise source. A total of 30 subjects were selected for this experimental research, and the ambient noise of 45, 65, 85, and 95 dB (decibels) was considered. The main data sources were three physiological indicators: the subjects' respiratory rate, heart rate, and galvanic skin response. In addition, data from the three behavioral indicators were gleaned, including the response time measured by sound, the response time measured by light, and a few operating errors. The correlation analysis of experimental data was carried out to analyze the correlation between physiological and behavioral indicators. In addition, variance analysis was performed, as ANOVA was used to analyze the experimental data to examine the variability of the physiological and behavioral measures of the subjects under univariate and multivariate interactions. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to determine the single-factor and multiple-factor interchanges between subjects, considering their physiological and behavioral differences as obtained from the indicators. Based on the coupling effect of the noise level, the different education and age levels and the mathematical relationship with the tested physiological indicators and behavioral ability were established. Predictions can be made regarding the behavioral capability of miners through their age, education levels, and the noise decibel level in the working environment. This may provide a theoretical basis for both the reduction in the unsafe behavior of miners and the improvement in coal mine safety.