Service de médecine légale, du travail, de l’éthique et de la toxicologie, Faculté des sciences et technique de la santé, Université Gamal Abdel Nasser de Conakry, Guinea
Introduction: Noise is a common pollutant in the workplace, particularly in the mining sector, which uses equipment that generates noisy environments. The aim of this study was to assess the occupational noise exposure of workers at a mining company in Senegal. Methodology: This was a retrospective, cross-sectional, and descriptive study that covered data recorded from May 2, 2016 to December 31, 2020. Results: A total of 393 noise exposure points were measured, with 17.6% exceeding 85 dB. The power plant was the noisiest area, with 53.8% of measurements exceeding 85 dB. Individual measurements of 51 workers in similar exposure groups (SEGs) from each department showed daily average exposure values (AELs) ranging from 55 dB in the SEG of WCP control room operators to 109 dB in the SEG of power plant electricians. Instantaneous noise exposure values (peaks) ranged from 115 dB in the WCP mechanics’ Similar Exposure Group to 143 dB in the MSP maintenance workers’ Similar Exposure Group. 85.6% of respondents had at least 5 years of service. Hypertension (4.9%) and moderate hearing loss (0.7%) were also recorded. Conclusion: Noise pollution is a reality at the Grande Côte Opération (GCO) mine. However, the technical and organizational measures implemented by the company have helped to reduce its harmful effects on workers’ health.