Applying Mathematical Modeling to Create Job Rotation Schedules for Minimizing Occupational Noise Exposure

• Published in: AIHA journal Vol. 64; no. 3; pp. 401 - 405
• Main Authors: Tharmmaphornphilas, Wipawee, Green, Benjamin, Carnahan, Brian J., Norman, Bryan A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States AIHA Journal 01.05.2003; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: Computer Simulation; Data collection; Employment; Hearing loss; Hearing Loss, Noise-Induced - prevention & control; Hearing protection; Humans; Job rotation; mathematical modeling; Mathematical models; Models, Statistical; Noise control; noise exposure; Noise, Occupational; Occupational Exposure - statistics & numerical data; Occupational safety; Occupations; Personnel Staffing and Scheduling - statistics & numerical data; Studies; Threshold Limit Values; Work Schedule Tolerance; Work stations; Workers
• ISSN: 1542-8117; 0002-8894; 1542-8125
• DOI: 10.1080/15428110308984833

This research developed worker schedules by using administrative controls and a computer programming model to reduce the likelihood of worker hearing loss. By rotating the workers through different jobs during the day it was possible to reduce their exposure to hazardous noise levels. Computer simulations were made based on data collected in a real setting. Worker schedules currently used at the site are compared with proposed worker schedules from the computer simulations. For the worker assignment plans found by the computer model, the authors calculate a significant decrease in time-weighted average (TWA) sound level exposure. The maximum daily dose that any worker is exposed to is reduced by 58.8%, and the maximum TWA value for the workers is reduced by 3.8 dB from the current schedule.