Investigation of occupational whole-body vibration exposure among Indian tractor drivers

Abstract

The study investigates whole body vibration (WBV) exposure among Indian tractor drivers. Two Sets of RPM levels i.e. (1500, 2000, 2500) and (1500, 2000) are considered for conducting on-road and harrowing operation, respectively. The VDVexp responses are beyond recommended exposure value as per ISO 2631-1 (1997). The SEATvdv% showed poor vibration isolation capacity of the tractor seat and found significant at 5% level with respect to body mass index (BMI) of subjects. The A(8) responses are exceeding recommended exposure limits as per ISO 2631-1 1997 and found to be significant at 5% level for both RPM levels. Both the operations depicted the dominant frequencies between 3.15–4 Hz and 8–10 Hz. These frequencies could cause discomfort due to existing natural frequencies of various body parts. It is concluded that the Indian tractor drivers require better quality of isolated seats in order to overcome high WBV exposures and critical frequencies.