IRSST - Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail

Comparative study of noise and hand-arm vibration exposure associated with the use of pneumatic and hydraulic jack-legs

Abstract

Pneumatic jack-leg drills, used by over 2 000 workers in the mining sector, generate significant levels of noise and hand vibration. Difficult to handle, they also are the cause of numerous accidents and back injuries. A hydraulic jack-leg drill has recently appeared, but very little data on its performance and safety is available.

The penetrating power of the two types of jack-leg drills was measured in the laboratory. All measurements of noise and hand vibration levels were performed by the IRSST.

The performance and health and safety characteristics of the two types of jack-leg will be described, and recommendations concerning their selection, improvement and use formulated.

Additional Information

Type: Project
Number: 0088-0230
Status: Completed
Team:
  • Jorgen Elbrond (Polytechnique Montréal)
  • Paul-Émile Boileau (IRSST)