ARCHIVES OF MINING SCIENCES, cilt.67, sa.3, ss.455-476, 2022 (SCI-Expanded)
In this study, the noise sources to which a coal miner, who works at the Kurul panel of Kilimli Colliery,
Zonguldak, was exposed were investigated. These sources were positioned at different points from
the surface to the workface. Noise levels were measured according to the working periods of the coal
miners around the machines. The results were evaluated under the Turkish Noise Regulation. The critical
exposure times in which the coal miners could work without the use of personal protective equipment
were examined according to the noise values to which they were exposed. In addition, the personal noise
exposure values of the machine operators (boring machine, electro-hydraulic drill, and pick hammer) were
determined during the development works. Two different types of noise measurements, with a microphone
at the ear level and inside the ear protector, were conducted. The results obtained when the microphone
of the personal dosimeter was at ear level, were found to be 15 dBA higher than those when the microphone
was inside the ear protector. As a result, the selection methods of ear protectors were analyzed.
Recommendations were given for those working on the risky tasks at the panel.