Mining Publication: Silica Dust Sources in Underground Limestone Mines

The NIOSH Pittsburgh Research Laboratory is involved in research to identify silica dust sources and generation in underground metal/nonmetal mines. The ultimate goal of this research is to develop control technologies to reduce worker exposure to respirable silica dust. Baseline dust surveys were conducted in underground limestone mines in Pennsylvania to investigate primary silica dust sources, generation levels, and controls being used. Three primary sources currently under investigation include dust generated by crushing facilities, face shots, and haul trucks. A summary of sampling procedures, resulting data, and methods being investigated to reduce silica dust will be discussed.