Dust Monitoring and Control Downloadable Mining Publications

Water spray characteristics, including droplet size and velocity, airborne dust capture potential, and induced airflow quantity for various spray nozzle designs were evaluated to provide basic information for improving spray applications. Test results indicate that there are trade offs between airflow inducement and dust capture efficiency. This information can be utilized to improve the performance of water sprays for reducing airborne dust levels. (PDF, 1837 KB, 2007-07)

This paper describes laboratory experiments in a wind tunnel with a roll crusher to identify relationships among crushing parameters, product size, coal rank properties and airborne dust generation. (PDF, 1143 KB, 2001-06)

This report examines the effect of oversize particles, cyclone inversion, and cleaning procedures on the Personal Dust Monitor (PDM).  (PDF, 276 KB, 2008)

Dust control modifications were implemented on small, truck-mounted rock drills at surface coal mines. The control techniques showed noticeable improvement in measured dust concentrations around the drills. (PDF, 1400 KB, 1995)

Two recent studies evaluated workers' dust exposures in automated pallet loading processes. The first study involved a Bureau-designed dust control system using a push-pull ventilation technique. The second study evaluated different commercial automated pallet-loading systems. Results from a ground silica evaluation site indicated respirable dust samples taken were below the threshold limit value as established by the Mine Safety and Health Adminstration. (HTML, KB, 1990)

A system to reduce occupational dust exposure during bag loading and stacking operations in the metal mining industry was developed. The system, known as the Bag and Belt Cleaner Device (B&BCD), was developed by NIOSH, and designed to clean the surfaces of 50 and 100 pound (lb) bags and conveyor belts while the bags were transported to stacking locations. (PDF, 339 KB, 1997-03)

 (PDF, 2516 KB, 2004-12)

During a recent NIOSH field evaluation of a newly designed filtration and pressurization system for an enclosed cab of a surface drill, it was determined that the drill operator's respirable-dust exposure was significantly increased during time periods when the cab door was opened to manually guide another section of drill steel into place. An alternative method is being investigated to guide the drill steel in place in order to eliminate this increased exposure. (PDF, 817 KB, 2007-10)

This paper reports US Bureau of Mines (USBM) research on the explosibility of coal dusts. The purpose of this work is to improve safety in mining and other industries that process or use coal. (PDF, 861 KB, 1996-01)

This paper describes the findings of a project that was developed to systematically document how workers react to wearing the PDM and evaluate how it is used on the job.  (PDF, 188 KB, 2008-04)

This paper presents the results of a hypothetical cost comparison analysis of the PDM with the current MSHA-required coal mine dust personal sampling unit (CMDPSU).  (PDF, 340 KB, 2008-07)

This paper presents the results of a side-by-side comparison of the respirable dust dosimeter and gravimetric respirable dust sampler in a controlled experimental environent in the laboratory and in underground coal mines under normal operating conditions. (PDF, 272 KB, 2001-01)

Describes a computer program developed by NIOSH for estimating the air quantity needed to dilute diesel particulate matter in underground large opening mines. (PDF, 202 KB, 2004)

In response to an MSHA task group recommendation, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Pittsburgh Research Center, initiated the development of a fixed-site machine-mounted continuous respirable dust monitor. (PDF, 418 KB, 1996)

NIOSH initiated the development of a fixed-site machine-mounted continous respirable dust monitor. The technology chosen for monitor development is the Rupprecht and Patashnick Co., Inc. tapered element oscillating microbalance. Laboratory and in-mine tests have indicated that, with modification, this sensor can meet the humidity and vibration requirements for underground coal mine use. (PDF, 1560 KB, 1997)

A study of dust control technology and practices to reduce the occurence of lung diseases in miners. (PDF, 1689 KB, 2001)
                                                   

This paper presents an overview of dust controls typically utilized in underground US coal mines and an update on ongoing NIOSH PRL research efforts that are evaluating new control technologies. (PDF, 1285 KB, 2008)

Since 1982, standard calibration materials recommended for respirable crystalline silica analysis by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) P7 Infrared Method and the NIOSH X-ray Diffraction (XRD) Analytical Method 7500 have undergone minor changes in size distribution. However, a critical assumption has been made that the crystalline silica in ambient mine atmosphere respirable dust samples has also remained essentially unchanged in particle size distribution. The objective of this work is to compare recent particle size distributions of underground coal mine dust and the silica component of these dusts with estimated aerodynamic particle size distributions of calibration standard materials MIN-U-SIL 5, Berkeley 5, and SRM 1878 used by two crystalline silica analysis techniques. (PDF, 68 KB, 2006-01)

Results from underground dust surveys to identify current operating practices and the types of controls being used at longwall operations are presented as an update on longwall dust control technology and operating practices. (PDF, 337 KB, 2007)

This report focuses on two areas of research to lower miners' exposure to respirable dust at surface operations. These areas deal with enclosed cabs methods to lower dust levels at surface drills. (PDF, 2569 KB, 2001)

This article examines the spatial variability of dust concentrations within a coal miner´s breathing zone and the impact of sampling location at the cap lamp, nose, and lapel. (PDF, 172 KB, 2007-08)

NIOSH recently investigated the performance of a lower-pressure, water-powered in-line series spray scrubber for removing localized airborne dust emitted at the source. Results showed noticeable improvements in airborne dust capture efficiency through the operation of multiple in-line series hollow cone spray nozzles within a round duct of pipe at the same water pressure as a single spray. (PDF, 1015 KB, 2006-01)

Although structure type and building material were not viewed as significant factors affecting the health of employees in mineral processing facilities when they were built, NIOSH has found that building type can impact respirable dust and noise levels. NIOSH performed a study in which it evaluated three building types: masonry, an open-structure design, and a steel-sided design. (PDF, 1541 KB, 2007-07)

This article summarized results of research conducted by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) at its Pittsburgh Research Laboratory. The objective of this work was to determine the correlation between the mass (M) of respirable coal and limestone dusts collected on 25-mm-diameter glass fiber filters mounted in cassettes and the increase in differential pressure that develops across the filters when drawing at constant air flow. (ASP, KB, 2002-02)

Dust surveys were conducted to determine factors affecting belt entry dust levels and how using belt air to ventilate work areas affected dust exposures. (PDF, 4300 KB, 1992)

This report presents information on dust control engineering techniques for metal and nonmetal mineral processing. Dust prevention, formation, and control are examined, and wet and dry control systems, personal protection, testing methods, and costing methodologies are discussed. Prospective users of this handbook include maintenance foremen, plant engineers, mill supervisors, and safety directors. (HTML, KB, 1987-02)

This paper presents an update on longwall dust control technology and practices in the U.S. It summarizes the results of NIOSH dust surveys conducted at longwalls throughout the country to document the types of controls that are being used and to quantify the relative effectiveness of these controls. It also presents longwall dust parameters provided by mine operators to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) to assess the status of dust control technology being used throughout the industry. (PDF, 2158 KB, 2006)

This paper summarizes existing dust control technologies routinely being used in underground coal mine operations, and provides a review of new controls that are being pursued. (PDF, 368 KB, 2007)

The dust-reduction capabilities of five commercially available bag valves were evaluated by the Bureau of Mines for use in mineral processing plants. The five valves were made of (1) standard paper, (2) polyethylene, (3) extended polyethylene, (4) double trap (paper), and (5) foam. The valves were evaluated at a mineral processing plant during the bag loading, conveying, and pallet loading process. For the overall process, the extended polyethylene valve was the most effective at reducing product blowback, and resulted in lower dust concentrations for bag-generated dust. (HTML, KB, 1986)

Many types of heavy equipment used in the mining and construction industries use enclosed cabs to protect equipment operators from dust and noise exposure. A cooperative research study with a mining company and a cab filtration company was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of retrofitting an older surface drill with two controls to lower the drill operator's respirable dust exposure. (PDF, 4166 KB, 2001-04)

The objectives of this work are to 1) evaluate the performance of the P7 method on field samples of low quartz mass loadings, 2) evaluate the magnitude of dust mass spatial variability within an enclosed cab environment, and 3) estimate the subsequent propagation of error in calculating the percentage of quartz over a broad range of mass and quartz filter loadings at a surface coal mine. (PDF, 883 KB, 2001-09)

A series of laboratory evaluations examined the impact of water spray pressure, curtain setback distance, and external and underboom spray use for controlling respirable dust levels and sulfur hexafluoride tracer gas concentrations around a continuous mining machine. (PDF, 132 KB, 2006)

This paper discusses NIOSH studies evaluating the impacts of emerging technologies that may reduce dust exposures for continuous mining and roof bolting personnel. These technologies include use of a wet-head cutting drum on a continuous mining machine, a canopy air curtain for protecting roof bolting personnel, and mist drilling technology for controlling respirable dust exposures of bolting personnel. (PDF, 292 KB, 2006)

The work presented in this paper focuses on the relationship between the PDM and respirable dust concentrations currently measured by a coal mine dust personal sampler unit utilizing a 10 mm Dorr Oliver nylon cyclone. (PDF, 197 KB, 2008-01)

NIOSH is conducting full-scale laboratory studies to evaluate dust liberation and control for dust generated by shearer cutting. (PDF, 650 KB, 2001)
                       

This analysis will indicate safe following distances for haul trucks and other heavy equipment to avoid overexposure to respirable dust from the lead haul truck. (PDF, 722 KB, 2005-02)

This work presents the findings from NIOSH field and laboratory studies comparing respirable dust levels on mist drilling roof bolter machines to dust levels measured on machines using a conventional vacuum drilling system. (PDF, 290 KB, 2008-12)

This paper examines methods for limiting occupational silica exposures for roof bolting personnel in underground coal mining. It also evaluates a metal rake, a flexible insert, and a rigid insert for cleaning the roof bolter dust collector box. (PDF, 393 KB, 2002-02)

The SKC, Inc., Dust Detective (SKCDD) is an affordable, person-wearable, real-time dust monitor. The relationship of dust concentrations measured by personal gravimetric samplers to those measured by the SKCDD was determined in a laboratory aerosol chamber. Results demonstrated that the SKCDD is a viable alternative means for measuring dust. While it provides accurate measurements for specific coal types, it requires correction factors (which still need to be calculated) for other coal types. (PDF, 159 KB, 2006)

The increased effectiveness of a two-phase spray system (TPSS) over a single-phase system (SPSS) for dust suppression is reported in several laboratory studies. (PDF, 723 KB, 2000-09)

The focus of this work is drill shroud dust leakage and the relationships of various drill parameters on this leakage. Given that exposures of surface coal mine rock drillers to respirable crystalline silica are of particular concern, substantial reductions of airborne silica dust during drilling may be estimated and achieved through use of the analysis presented. (PDF, 292 KB, 2008-09)

Explosion characteristics such as the minimum explosible concentration and the rock dust inerting requirements were measured for various combustible dusts. The explosion resistance characteristics of seals was also evaluated. (PDF, 590 KB, 2000-05)

During the 20th century, the increased emphasis on worker health and safety and the advent of new mining equipment and methods led to many changes in mine face ventilation practices. This paper examines factors that had a significant influence on mine face ventilation design during the past century. (PDF, 843 KB, 2007-02)

Airborne respirable dust surveys were conducted at six surface coal mines to investigate the effectiveness of dust control methods used on rotary rock drills and bulldozers. (PDF, 810 KB, 1999)

Operator cabs on a front-end loader and a rotary rock drill were retrofitted with ceiling mounted heating/AC units and air filtration systems. Subsequently, surface coal mine field studies were conducted to evaluate the respirable dust protection these retrofitted cab systems offer to the equipment operator. Results indicate that achieving positive interior cab pressurization with retrofitted cab filtration systems is a key element in their dust control effectiveness. (PDF, 930 KB, 2000-08)

This paper describes the testing and reliability of results of a NIOSH developed Coal Dust Explosibility Meter (CDEM), a hand-held instrument that uses optical reflectance to measure the explosibility of a rock dust and coal dust mixture. (PDF, 240 KB, 2008)

Full-scale testing and results are described for an automated system that continuously monitors the accumulation of coal dust in mine entries. (PDF, 234 KB, 1998-05)

This handbook describes effective methods for the control of mineral dusts in mines and tunnels. It assumes the reader is familiar with mining. The first chapter deals solely with dust control methods, regardless of the application. It is a brief tutorial on mining dust control and will be of help to the reader whose dust control problem does not conveniently fit any of the mining equipment niches described in later chapters. (PDF, 4167 KB, 2003-06)

This truck haulage dust study showed that primarily wind, distance, and road treatment conditions notably affected the dust concentrations at locations next to, 50 ft from, and 100 ft away from the unpaved haulage road. (PDF, 549 KB, 2007-10)

Proper measurement of dust particle concentration is a critical step toward the elimination of dust-related occupational disease. This paper examines the development of dust sampling methods in U.S. coal mines, with emphasis on the benefits of personal sampling and on recent developments that permit real- time assessment of dust exposure. (PDF, 460 KB, 2002)

The Bureau of Mines has recorded a number of different background dust sources that significantly contaminate the air breathed by bag machine operators. To keep bag operator exposure within acceptable dust levels established by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, the significance of these background sources must be realized, and the sources must be identified and controlled. (HTML, KB, 1986)

Previous research on continuous mining operations has shown that significant interactions exist between dust-control parameter application and the resulting respirable dust levels. However, simply increasing the level of the controls does not guarantee a reduction in respirable dust levels. Full-scale laboratory tests are being conducted to provide information to longwall operators that would assist them in selecting control parameters to reduce dust levels for mine-specific conditions. (PDF, 752 KB, 2002-02)

NIOSH researchers have demonstrated that mine-wide ventilation in large-opening stone mines can be improved by using low-pressure, high-volume propeller fans and constructing stoppings in key locations to direct and control airflow. In light of these findings, a comparative study was conducted to determine if a portable diesel-powered propeller fan could perform more efficiently for dust dilution and transport than an axial vane fan for localized ventilation. Results showed an improvement with the propeller fan to dilute both the respirable dust and the respirable silica dust around the dump/crusher facility. (PDF, 752 KB, 2006-06)

A unique method to collect and measure respirable coal mine dust using the tapered element oscillating microbalance has demonstrated potential use as an effective engineering tool to help dust control. (PDF, 166 KB, 2004-12)

This article describes the results from analysis of open-face samples which suggest that the new formulations for PDM filters have fully addressed the analytical obstacles that existed with the original filter design. (PDF, 340 KB, 2008-05)

NIOSH researchers have developed a model to describe airborne respirable dust (ARD) generation on surface coal mine drills. (PDF, 284 KB, 2008-09)
                            

A recent report evaluating silica exposure levels in the metal/nonmetal mining industry noted that bag packaging and loading are some of the occupations at the greatest risk. In addition to dust problems, the bag-stacking process is labor intensive, making lost-time injuries common due to back fatigue and strains. (PDF, 414 KB, 2000-04)

NIOSH conducted a strategic planning effort to identify those areas in mining with the greatest research needs. In response, the Pittsburgh Research Laboratory (PRL) has implemented a multi-faceted research program to improve silica dust control for these problematic commodities and occupations. A review of silica compliance trends, PRL silica research programs, and recent control technology developments are provided here. (PDF, 1703 KB, 2002-02)

During the last few years, PRL researchers have conducted research related to the following goals: improving protection provided by enclosed cabs on mobile surface mining equipment, reducing dust generation from surface drills, reducing dust levels in iron ore operations, and developing a new method to clean dust from workers' soiled clothes. A description of each of these controls and subsequent dust reductions quantified through site surveys is provided. (PDF, 924 KB, 2007)

The objective of the research was to cost-effectively increase the air cleaning volume and improve dust capture efficiency of an off-the-shelf dust collector with a larger motor and blower. (PDF, 522 KB, 2008)

This study examines the accuracy of area sampling for measuring the dust exposure of mining machine operators at coal mine working faces. The work was prompted by the development of a prospective new type of dust sampling instrument called the machine-mounted continuous respirable dust monitor (MMC-RDM). (PDF, 799 KB, 2002-02)

The effect of wind speed upon aerosol penetration into an idealized enclosure was studied. (PDF, 474 KB, 1999-02)
                                                             

Laboratory testing and results are presented where five bituminous coals were prepared and processed through a double roll crusher located in a low-velocity wind tunnel. The results indicate that a combination of several factors are associated with airborne respirable dust generation. (PDF, 266 KB, 1998-10)

Two types of airflow splitting methods for improving longwall dust control were investigated by NIOSH's Pittsburgh Research Laboratory. These methods included a transducer mesh barrier and a staged spray barrier system to confine the shearer-generated dust to the coal extraction side of the longwall face while maintaining a cleaner split of airflow on the opposing worker walkway side of the longwall face. (PDF, 1293 KB, 1999)

NIOSH experimentally investigated various factor effects on cab air filtration system performance. This paper describes the laboratory experiments which were performed on an enclosed cab test stand examining the independent factor effects of intake filter efficiency, intake filter loading (airflow resistance), intake air leakage around the filter, recirculation filter use, and wind on cab performance. (PDF, 1354 KB, 2008-11)

This paper presents the results of NIOSH laboratory and field tests to evaluate the effectiveness of dust collector bags for reducing dust liberation and operator exposure from a roof bolter's dust collection system. (PDF, 742 KB, 2008-07)

This report includes the theory of operation, description, and the performance of the Personal Dust Monitor (PDM) compared to gravimetric-based reference dust sampling methods and laboratory verification of the instruments accuracy. There is also a detailed underground evaluation that includes measurement of the instruments precision, durability under mine use conditions, and the functionality of the instrument when used by miners. (PDF, 1735 KB, 2006-09)

Testing at NIOSH assessed the effectiveness of a canopy air curtain for controlling occupational exposures to respirable silica and coal dusts. (PDF, 303 KB, 2001)

Assessment of exposure to occupational dusts is a first step in reducing exposures to harmful dust concentrations. A new type of respirable dust sampler was developed and compared side-by-side to personal gravimetric samplers in the laboratory. (ASP, KB, 2000-01)

Laboratory test to simulate dust liberation during shield movement were conducted. (PDF, 707 KB, 2001)
                                                                     

NIOSH experimental investigation results indicate that the intake filter efficiency and recirculation filter were the two most influential factors on cab protection performance. (PDF, 150 KB, 2008)

A series of controlled laboratory tests were conducted in a test stand simulating shield dust entrainment to evaluate changes in airborne respirable dust levels at different air velocities. (PDF, 223 KB, 2001)

A cooperative research effort was established to lower respirable dust levels in an iron ore grinding and concentrator plant. The most significant improvement was realized by changing the ventilation profile throughout the entire facility. Another successful modification was to improve the sealing of a reclaim tunnel to the outside and to barricade the access point from the reclaim tunnel to the concentrator plant. These two modifications illustrate the impact that improvements in ventilation can have on lowering respirable dust concentrations in iron ore processing facilities. (PDF, 294 KB, 2006)

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has developed a machine-mounted continuous respirable dust monitor (MMCRDM) based on the tapered-element oscillating microbalance (TEOM®) sensing technology. The sensor can be mounted on mobile mining equipment and can continuously and accurately measure respirable coal mine dust mass concentrations despite the rigors of the underground mine environment. The display shows dust levels averaged over various intervals and a graph of the shift average as a function of time. The monitor also incorporates several automatic diagnostic functions to detect system failure or tampering. (PDF, 1759 KB, 1997-10)

This article reviews various dust control technologies developed over the years at the Pittsburgh Research Laboratory of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) to provide various options and alternatives to lower bag machine operators' and bag stackers' dust exposures. (ASP, KB, 2000-10)

A summary of aerosol measurement technology currently used in the U.S. mining industry as it relates to regulation, research and personal exposure monitoring. (PDF, 694 KB, 2001-09)

This NIOSH paper documents coal miners´ reactions to the new Personal Dust Monitor (PDM), and how they make use of the information th PDM provides. (PDF, 2423 KB, 2007)

This report summarizes a field study by NIOSH that documented the reactions of 30 miners at 4 underground coal mines concerning the use of personal dust monitors (PDMs) and how they make use of the information it provides. (PDF, 285 KB, 2008-02)

Discusses a simple, quick fix to reduce dust from blasthole drills by installing a dust collector shroud. This can reduce respirable dust conventrations at the dust collector dump point by more than 63%. (PDF, 310 KB, 2004-06)

A new prototype bag nozzle system has been designed under a Bureau of Mines contract to reduce dust generated during the bagging operation on fluidized air baggers. A field analysis of the new system has shown that the bag operator's dust exposure was reduced 83 pct. The amount of blowback was reduced 89 pct, which corresponds to a significant product savings. (HTML, KB, 1984)

Dust from worker's clothes has been shown to be a problematic source of personal dust exposure. A recently completed effort between NIOSH and Unimin Corp. has resulted in a quick and effective way to clean worker clothing. Field testing indicated that the manifold cleaned the clothes 10 times faster and removed 50% more dust than cleaning methods used by workers today. (PDF, 1019 KB, 2006)

The compliance sampling method for coal mine dust in the United States has not changed appreciably in the last 30 years. A call for more frequent sampling with immediately available results is leading to new instruments that may supplement or replace the existing sampler. (PDF, 321 KB, 2001)

Exposure to airborne respirable crystalline silica dust can lead to silicosis, a debilitating lung disease. On surface coal mining and construction sites, blast hole drills are notorious sources of airborne respirable dust that may contain significant amounts of silica. (PDF, 7376 KB, 1998-11)

Bag stackers who use semi-automated palletizing machines and air slides may be exposed to high concentrations of dust. To reduce dust exposure, use an exhaust ventilation system in conjunction with an envelope of clean air over the bagstacker provided by an overhead air supply. (PDF, 515 KB, 2001-07)

A study was conducted examining the risk of silica dust exposure in mine workers exposed to continuous miners equipped with flooded bed scrubbers. (HTML, 8 KB, 1997-08)

The importance of controlling respirable dust and methane gas levels in underground coal mining cannot be underestimated. This paper reviews practical applications of water sprays and dust scrubbers to control respirable dust and methane gas on continuous miner faces. (PDF, 337 KB, 2000)

This article describes the first comprehensive survey since the 1920s to determine the range of coal particle sizes found in dust samples collected from intake airways of US coal mines.  (PDF, 215 KB, 2008-05)

Discusses current NIOSH research to improve mine ventilation and mine air quality, particularly for large opening mines. (PDF, 2760 KB, 2002)
                               

The Bureau of Mines has developed a pallet loading dust control system designed to lower the dust exposure of workers during the bag stacking process at mineral processing facilities. The system makes bag stacking much easier because the pallet height remains constant throughout the entire bag stacking cycle through the use of a hydraulic lift table. The system uses a push-pull ventilation technique to capture the dust generated during bag stacking. (HTML, KB, 1988)

Because of the need to provide short-term or real-time estimates of worker respirable dust exposure, porous foam may be a viable classification media for a low flow rate, disposable respirable dust sampler for use in the coal mining industry. (ASP, KB, 2000-07)

This paper presents the results of testing of the Dynamic Component Program model with the ISC3 model of predicting dispersion of dust from haul trucks at two surface mine sites. (PDF, 2045 KB, 2004-01)

The Thermo personal DataRam (pDR) is an instantaneous sampler that uses light-scattering technology to provide relative measures of airborne respirable dust. The pDR can be used in active and passive modes to measure respirable dust levels. Tests were conducted to evaluate the sampling performance of active and passive pDR operation relative to each other and against a gravimetric sampler (the accepted standard for respirable dust measurement). The purpose of the test was to determine if the pDR can be used effectively in the passive mode in higher velocity airflows. (PDF, 2476 KB, 2007)

The Thermo-MIE personal DataRAM dust monitor (pDR) is a light-scattering instrument approved for use in gassy underground mines by the U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). However, the use of light-scattering monitors has been inhibited by concerns about inaccurate readings resulting from changes in dust size distribution and composition, as well as concerns about the impact of moisture in the mine air. Because of this concern, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) evaluated the pDR using available data from laboratory tests and mine surveys. (PDF, 165 KB, 2006)

A personal dust monitor (PDM) was developed to measure respirable coal mine dust mass to provide accurate exposure data at the end of a work shift. In tests, the PDM demonstrated that it was convenient to wear, robust, provided accurate data, provided timely data that could be used to prevent overexposure, and was easy to use. (PDF, 408 KB, 2004-06)

The personal dust monitor (PDM) is a sampling device developed for measuring the personal exposure to coal mine dust of mine workers. (PDF, 494 KB, 2002-10)

This paper concludes a five-year program on research into the use of a portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer for analyzing lead in air sampling filters from different industrial environments, including mining, manufacturing and recycling. (PDF, 208 KB, 2007-11)

An alternative method to the original system developed by NIOSH and Unimin Corporation to provide for a stand-alone clothes cleaning system has been developed to quickly, effectively, and safely remove dust from the clothing of a worker without dust exposure to the worker, the work environment, or co-workers during the cleaning process. (PDF, 268 KB, 2008)

The Bureau of Mines has evaluated a number of ventilation systems for potential application in lowering the dust exposure of workers who stack bags of mineral product material in enclosed vehicles. Laboratory- scale testing was performed in a railcar to compare the effectiveness of a number of different ventilation systems in reducing the bag stacker's dust exposure. The most effective system was taken into the field to optimize its performance. With this system, dust reductions in and around the bag stacker ranged between 65 and 95 pct when loading both 50- and 100-lb bags of product into railcars and trailer trucks. (HTML, KB, 1987)

This report discusses a cooperative research study performed on a surface drill retrofitted with a new pressurization and filtration system. Respirable dust concentrations were substantially reduced from 0.64 mg/m3 during pre-testing to 0.05 mg/m3 during post-testing with the new system, representing a 92% reduction in dust levels in the drill cab. (PDF, 224 KB, 2002-02)

Discusses a cooperative research effort to lower respirable dust levels in an enclosed cab on an older surface drill at a silica sand operation. A number of modifications were incorporated into the drill's filtration and pressurization system, as well as in other areas, to improve its design and performance. The goal was to identify cost-effective improvements that could be implemented on all types of enclosed cabs to lower respirable dust concentrations. (PDF, 1999 KB, 2005)

The design and evaluation of two total mill ventilation systems are described. Both systems proved to be very effective at reducing respirable dust levels in a cost-effective manner, were easy to install, and required minimal maintenance. (PDF, 876 KB, 1993)

A quick, safe, and effective method has been developed that allows workers to clean their dust laden work clothing periodically throughout the day. The newly designed clothes cleaning process has potential application to any industry where workers' clothing becomes contaminated with most any type of dust or product. (PDF, 8726 KB, 2007-04)

The U.S. Bureau of Mines has designed and tested a system called the Bag and Belt Cleaner Device (B&BCD) to reduce dust levels in and around the bag conveying and stacking process. The device physically cleans either 22.7 kg (50 lb) or 45.4 kg (100 lb) paper bags by using a combination of bushes and air jets. Two field evaluations showed that the amount of product removed from the outside of the bags varied from 77 to 93 pct. (HTML, KB, 1995)

Longwall mining equipment has improved dramatically over the last 15 years. Although significant gains in longwall dust control have been made, they have been challenged by significant increases in coal extraction rates resulting in more dust being generated. (PDF, 365 KB, 2001)

The U.S. Bureau of Mines investigated the relationship of bituminous coal seam parameters and the amount of respirable dust generated at longwalls. (PDF, 1699 KB, 1992)

Small scale laboratory pulverizing experiments were performed on humidified coal material sieved to size 6.35 mm (0.250 in) and below to eliminate effects due to inherent planes of weakness (cleats or joints). Experimental factors studied include the coal seam proximate analysis constituents, the breakage-in duced electrostatic field of airborne dust, and the specific airborne dust generated. (ASP, KB, 2000-04)

The importance of controlling respirable dust and methane gas levels in underground coal mining cannot be underestimated. While respirable dust can significantly affect the occupational health of underground coal miner, methane gas accumulations pose significant safety concerns for these same workers. (PDF, 263 KB, 2001)

A U.S. Bureau of Mines investigation of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy for on-filter analysis of respirable dust. (PDF, 2125 KB, 1992)
                      

A recent study evaluated respirable dust at Portland cement operations to quantify areas of high dust levels and make recommendations for lowering levels in these areas. Part 1 of 2. (HTML, KB, 2000)

A recent study evaluated respirable dust at Portland cement operations to quantify areas of high dust levels and make recommendations for lowering levels in these areas. Part 2 of 2. (HTML, KB, 2000)

A Review of Occupational Silica Exposures on Continuous Mining Operations. (PDF, 638 KB, 2000)
                                                                             

This paper briefly discusses the current status of some miner health-related issues, including those involving coal dust, silica dust, diesel particulate matter, asbestos, noise, lead, welding fumes, and skin disorders, as well as research and other activities aimed at protecting miners from occupational illnesses and disease. (PDF, 398 KB, 2003-02)

This report presents the various dust dispersion models that have been developed specifically for the mining industry. (PDF, 303 KB, 2005)
                                 

The ultimate goal of this research is to develop control technologies to reduce worker exposure to respirable silica dust. Dust surveys were conducted in an underground limestone and gold mine to investigate silica dust sources, generation levels, and controls being used. A summary of the mining operations, sampling procedures, resulting data, and suggested methods to improve the dust control will be provided. (PDF, 885 KB, 2002)

In response to the Mine Safety and Health Administration's request, the U.S. Bureau of Mines investigated several sensor technologies for continuously monitoring respirable coal mine dust. One of these technologies is the tapered element, oscillating microbalance. (PDF, 377 KB, 1996-01)

NIOSH conducted dust surveys at 13 longwalls operating throughout the U.S. and collected information to: identify current operating practices on these longwalls, identify the types of dust controls in use, document the levels at which these controls are being applied, and measure the respirable dust levels present. This data was analyzed to quantify the dust levels generated by the major sources on the longwall section and to evaluate the relative effectiveness of the control technologies in use. (PDF, 1805 KB, 1997)

This paper describes a computer analysis system used presently by the Bureau of Mines to analyze quickly and accurately large volumes of information obtained from real-time dust monitors during research studies. It substantially reduces the time necessary to perform various data analysis calculations and manipulations, including graphics. It also provides raw data files that can be transferred to other software packages for other required manipulations. (HTML, KB, 1988)

Health research studies have identified that the risk of developing and the severity of CWP are directly related to the amount of respirable dust exposure and the coal rank. The Pittsburgh Research Laboratory is pursuing more in-depth studies of coal charging characteristics and the use if water additives (surfactants) for water spray systems to improve dust suppression and reduce miner dust exposure. (PDF, 281 KB, 2000)

This paper summarizes the results of research that has been done on respirable dust control for surface mine blasthole drilling operations. Additionally, past dust control research for drilling operations of both underground and surface mines completed by the U.S. Bureau of Mines, created in 1910 and incorporated into NIOSH in 1997, is reviewed. (PDF, 561 KB, 2008)

This article outlines research by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) on using whole-plant ventilation in two mineral processing operations to reduce respirable dust levels. (PDF, 460 KB, 1998-01)

The USBM's current approach to air splitting consists of using a polyester mesh partition to overcome the visibility problems of a solid barrier. (PDF, 73 KB, 1994-03)

A method is described to increase the dust-control effectiveness of the Rotoclone dry-dust collection systems used on surface coal mine drills. (PDF, 80 KB, 1994-10)

Dust collector discharge shrouds were used to reduce airborne respirable dust generated from emptying dry dust collectors on small truck-mounted drills at surface coal mines. (PDF, 94 KB, 1995-03)

A machine-mounted continuous respirable dust monitor is discussed that can accurately monitor, display, and record concentration levels of respirable coal mine dust in mines for extended periods. (PDF, 131 KB, 1997-07)

Higher efficiency air filters provide good dust control for the equipment operator, but tend to accumulate dust more quickly than lower efficiency air filters. (PDF, 193 KB, 2001-02)

Floor heaters are identified as contributing to dust levels in enclosed cabs. Two methods are identified to minimize the problem of dust generation inside cabs. (PDF, 539 KB, 2001-03)

A method is described to reduce the dust generated from soiled floors within enclosed operator cabs. (PDF, 442 KB, 2001-03)
                                                   

The growing realization of the importance of a healthy work environment along with increased regulations will require many stone mines to implement new ways to improve ventilation. In-place stone stoppings are one option. (PDF, 152 KB, 2002-12)

A new clothes-cleaning process was developed that uses a compressed air nozzle manifold to blow dust from the worker's clothes in an enclosed booth. The process cleans work clothes 10 times faster and removes up to 50% more dust than the single air hose or vacuuming methods. Average cleaning time is less than 20 seconds. (PDF, 649 KB, 2005-05)

This research showed that a tight shroud is very beneficial for the drill dust collection system, while improvements for a leaky shroud could be achieved with collector-to-bailing airflow ratios >= 3:1 and/or by relocating the inlet. (PDF, 84 KB, 2005-10)

A combination of engineering, administrative, and ventilation controls will eventually be required in many large opening mines in the United States to meet the regulatory DPM concentration limits. The AQE is a tool for mine planners to use to estimate site-specific ventilation requirements for their mine, as well as to evaluate options to meet the regulatory DPM concentration limits. (PDF, 223 KB, 2006-03)

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of dust collector bags for reducing dust liberation from a roof bolter dust collection system. (PDF, 475 KB, 2007-02)

NIOSH has investigated various cab filtration system factors on a basic HVAC system in the laboratory to evaluate their effects on overall cab dust protection performance. The factors experimentally investigated were intake filter efficiency, intake air leakage, intake filter loading (filter flow resistance), recirculation filter use, and wind penetration. The use of the recirculation filter remarkably improved the average cab protection factor by an order of magnitude over what was provided by the intake filter. (PDF, 130 KB, 2007-10)

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has been performing research to retrofit cabs with new filtration and pressurization systems in an effort to improve the air quality in enclosed cabs of older mining equipment.  (PDF, 151 KB, 2008-09)

The machine-mounted continuous respirable dust monitor (MMCRDM) is a fixed-location area sampling device developed for possible use at the working face of an underground coal mine. decades. Recently, an extensive series of laboratory and underground tests was conducted by NIOSH with the cooperation of MSHA and coal operators to test the performance of the MMCRDM. (PDF, 312 KB, 2001)

Researchers at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) have long used stationary tapered element oscillating microbalances (TEOMs®) in laboratory settings. They have served to assess the mass concentration of laboratory-generated particulates in experimental dust chambers and they provide a reference method for comparison with other particulate-measuring instruments. Current NIOSH research is focused on further adapting TEOM technology as a wearable personal dust monitor (PDM) for coal mining occupations. This investigation's goal is to help identify, quantify, and provide means for resolving certain TEOM-related error. The present research investigated bias caused by thermal effects on filter assemblies. (PDF, 1164 KB, 2007-07)

This article addresses some of the less-recognized, secondary dust sources that can cause a bagging operator's exposure to except acceptable limits. Sections describe a US Bureau of Mines study and the secondary dust sources. Although the study described here was conducted in mineral processing plants, the information can be applied to bagging operations in plants handling other dry bulk materials. (HTML, KB, 1993)

A laboratory study assessed the impacts of water spray pressure, face ventilation quantity, and line brattice setback distance on respirable dust and SF6 tracer gas concentrations around a continuous mining machine using a sprayfan or directional spray system. The results showed that changes in all three independent variables significantly affected log-transformed dust levels at the three operator sampling locations. (PDF, 140 KB, 2004-12)

This paper describes research into a laser absorption technique that enables one to measure elemental carbon concentration in deisel particulate matter in near real time. (PDF, 465 KB, 2007)

The amount of airborne respirable dust generated from breakage of different coals varies widely. This research was conducted to identify the facets of airborne respirable dust liberation from the coal product. (PDF, 1217 KB, 2002-06)

This manuscript will discuss five different research studies conducted by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) which use ventilation in some application to lower workers' respirable dust exposures at surface and metal/nonmetal mining operations. As federal standards for health issues continue to require lower levels in the future, engineers and health and safety specialists must investigate novel approaches to improve air quality. The goal of the research discussed in this manuscript is to provide an array of applications where ventilation can be used to reduce respirable dust exposures. (PDF, 1222 KB, 2005-07)

Supplemental water sprays were placed along the sides of a continuous mining machine to improve suppression and confinement of the dust cloud under the cutting boom to reduce downwind dust levels. Using a full-scale mock-up of a continuous mining machine, preliminary work showed that these side sprays improved suppression of the dust cloud and redistributed this cloud under the cutting head. (PDF, 849 KB, 2000-07)

Tests have been conducted by NIOSH on a newly designed device for smaller diameter drills that separates the water from the bailing air before it reaches the bit and thus provides the cost benefit of dry drilling while providing the benefit of wet drilling for dust suppression. (PDF, 2225 KB, 2007-09)