Mining Publication: An Integrated Approach for Managing Diesel Emission Controls for Underground Metal Mines

NIOSH has been working with diesel emissions control technology and the underground mining industry for a number of years. Underground isolated zone studies provided the emissions reduction performance of all of the alternative technologies currently available. A NIOSH-MSHA guide is available that provides mines with information and a process for selecting diesel particulate filters. Recent NIOSH experience suggests that more attention may be needed in managing the issues associated with diesel emissions and their control. The author argues that a holistic approach is needed that involves several key mine operations, departments, or disciplines by positing that workplace air can be considered as the product of a complex manufacturing process and examining how that process could be managed.