Development of impact model for grinding process in the framework of sustainable manufacturing

Abstract

Result and Discussion: The novel use of pulmonary functions as a proxy of secondary measurement is taken as an indicator of sustainable manufacturing as it enhances the safety of grinding operators. Significant differences were found on FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC, and PEFR between grinding operators and control group, which is used to create a benchmark to qualify the manufacturing as sustainable manufacturing. Exposure to the Grinding Environment (EGE) had a significant effect on most of the spirometric indices. The study shows 80% grinding operators and 12% of subjects of the control group have low pulmonary functions, which means there is a higher chance of reduced lung performance in the grinding operators. To verify the same, cluster approach including various conditions like, open and close machinery and wet and dry grinding was used to find the impact number, where 26 subjects were found impacted. newlineConclusion: This study assesses the influence of the grinding environment using pulmonary functions of the grinding operator among industries at Rajkot in India. This study documents work-related changes in pulmonary functions in the grinding operators and report the drop in these functions without any major external indications on the grinding operators. There was no sign of skin problems and low SPO2. There is an apparent link between duration of Exposure to Grinding Environment (EGE) and associated medical risk, which commences as early as within the first 3 to 4 years without any significant external manifestation of signs. The Impact Model for Grinding Process can be developed by giving various training, safety awareness programs, personal hygiene awareness, and skin protection to the grinding operators. Such efforts contribute to making the grinding process to a sustainable manufacturing process. newline