Spatial variability characterization of acoustic discomfort and zone of admissible noise caused by micro-tractor

Abstract

Agricultural development requires greater adoption of machinery by producers to avoid damage to the worker’s health due to excessive noise. In this scenario, this study aimed to analyze the noise magnitude emitted by a micro-tractor using geostatistics and Statistical Process Control (SPC) in mapping spatial variability to identify healthy zones for workers. The study was carried out at the Federal University of Lavras (UFLA), where noise levels were collected at points distributed in a regular 2.0×2.0 m sample grid around the machine. The spatial dependence of noise was analyzed by adjusting the wave-type semivariogram and interpolating by ordinary kriging and the SPC through individual control charts. It was possible to observe alarming noise values above 85 dB(A) in a radius of up to 6 m around the tractor in operation. The maximum value of 91 dB(A) was obtained from the operator’s seat, thus allowing maximum daily exposure of 3.5 h. In addition, it was observed that people located at distances greater than 4 m from the micro-tractor do not need to wear personal protective equipment for an exposure of 8 h of work.