Background
Inspectors have recently observed that some mining operators are not operating, or do not have installed, adequate dust control systems for the crushing, screening and conveying circuits at processing plants.
Inspectors have been told by operators that dust control systems do not effectively suppress or control any dusts and that there is a reluctance to use existing systems because of fear of blocking the plant with wet materials.
Summary of hazard
The management of dust is critical. When small particles are inhaled they can deposit deep into the sensitive regions of the lungs, and small dust particles have the potential to cause serious harm to health.
Prolonged exposure to airborne dust can lead to breathing difficulties and lung diseases such as pneumoconioses, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder and asthma. It may also lead to further complications for people suffering from other cardiovascular conditions.
Contributory factors
Commonly observed factors that result in excessive airborne dust release include:
- crushing, screening and conveying circuits not designed to minimise spillage and dust generation
- inability to effectively recover or safely remove accumulated spillage due to poor design
- inadequate design of dust extraction or suppression systems
- dust suppression systems not installed or operating
- poor plant maintenance and operation, leading to spillage or uncontrolled dust generation
- performance of dust extraction or suppression systems not being monitored.