Health Hazards and Heavy Construction

Abstract

Abstract Investigations of heavy construction projects, underground and on the surface, have revealed that modern mechanization with heavy-duty equipment causes health hazards in tunnel, highway and dam construction operations. Noise levels above 100 decibels are common, and preliminary audiograms indicate some hearing loss in the majority of drillers and heavy equipment operators. Dry drilling operations on highway and dam construction produce excessive exposure to silica dust. Noise and dust control measures applicable to these problems are discussed.