Maximum Aerobic Capacity and Relative Aerobic Strain among Mobile Mine Equipment Operators in Underground Mines

Abstract

The maximum aerobic capacity and relative aerobic strain could be employed as indicators to establish a balance between work and individuals. Unfortunately, information about the physiological demands of mobile mine equipment operators working in underground mines is nearly nonexistent. The present research aimed to determine the maximum aerobic capacity and relative aerobic strain of the mobile mine equipment operators and assess their relationship with their age and body mass index. Forty operators involved in transporting ore, overburden, mine personnel, explosives, repair material, etc., were examined. The maximum aerobic capacity was determined indirectly using the heart rate of the operators. The mean aerobic capacity of the operators was 38.75 mL/kg/min, and the lowest mean aerobic capacity was found in LHD operators, 37.98 ± 3.93 mL/kg/min. The maximum aerobic capacity was negatively correlated with age and body mass index. Eleven out of 40 operators had relative aerobic strain exceeding 50% of the maximum aerobic capacity. The mean relative aerobic strain was 46.9 ± 5.54, and the highest mean relative aerobic strain of 49.37 ± 5.55 was found among LHD operators. The relative aerobic strain had a positive correlation with age and BMI. Knowing the operators’ maximal capacities while executing their tasks could be crucial in assessing the physiological demands of individuals working in underground mines in terms of acceptable work constraints. © 2022, The Institution of Engineers (India).