Noise Exposure in Olive Harvest Mechanization

The purpose of this study was to determine the daily noise exposure levels in olive harvesting and to evaluate its effects on employees' health. The sound pressure levels (dBA) at the ear level of the employees were measured during olive harvest operations performed by hand-held, self-propelled and tractor-driven machines. It was determined that equivalent sound pressure levels and daily personal noise exposure levels at the operator ear level were in the range of 74-88 dBA and 66-82 dBA, respectively. These values for other employees ranged from 71 to 81 dBA and 65 to 75 dBA. It was determined that the hand-held and tractor driven machines driven by internal combustion engines had higher noise parameters compared to other machines, and the lower exposure action value was exceeded in these machines. The study showed that the health and work efficiency of the employees could be adversely affected, due to prolonged exposure during olive harvest activities.