An Assessment of Whole-Body Vibrations Exposure in Transport Truck Drivers

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to asses whole-body vibration (WBV) exposure from transport truck drivers. Methods: Field measurements of WBV were measured according to the National Standard Decree 594/99, was implemented in Chile through the vibration protocol. They were measured simultaneously according to ISO 2631-1. The Decrees contain legal obligations and minimum requirements for the evaluation by direct measurement, which is the reference method. Results: The sum of the vectors of frequency-weighted r.m.s. acceleration varied between 0.35 and 0.94 m/s², which meant that none of the vehicles exceeded the action value stated by decree 594/99 (⁠X-Axis 0.71([m/s²]), Y-Axis 0.71([m/s²]) and Z-axis 1,06 ([m/s²]). In general, the dominant vibration direction for the truck driver was the Z-axis. The other axis measurement levels were under the Chilean and European legislation. Significant differences were identified between the levels measured in each of the axes (X, Y, Z) and great differences can be identified between the levels obtained in trucks from the year 2011 and trucks from the year 2019. Despite obtaining high levels on the z axis, none of the measurements exceeded the established limits. Conclusions: The dominant vibration direction varies depending on the transport truck type and the state of the road or highway on which truck circulates. The study shows that no worker is under health guidance caution zone (HGCZ) so the probability of contracting musculoskeletal injuries is very low.