Analysis of Whole-Body Vibration Transmitted in Ready Mix Concrete Delivery Operations

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to identify and analyse whole-body vibration (WBV) exposure in the ready mix concrete (RMC) industry. Several assessment methods have been compared to determine whether the criteria predict similar health risks of WBV exposure. Background: Professional drivers are exposed to high levels of vibrations during different activities. Continued exposure to WBV may cause musculoskeletal disorders and degenerative changes in the lumbar spine. Method: WBV exposure was measured and assessed in accordance with EU Directive 2002/44/CE and ISO2631-5:2018. Results: Drivers who perform RMC delivery with trucks are exposed to a high level of WBV. The average velocity and the type of surfaces are factors that influence the magnitude of the WBV exposure. Conclusion: Ensuring the health and safety of workers exposed to WBV on a daily basis requires analysis of the exposure patterns. A database containing the lifetime WBV exposure history of drivers is key information to estimate more accurately the probability of adverse health effects associated with long-term WBV exposure. Application: This study is a step forward in current efforts to encourage companies to improve the management of WBV exposure to prevent musculoskeletal disorders. © 2022, The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.