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We all know that coal mining generates dust from the rock and coal being mined, but what do you do to help eliminate the dust that is generated?
Many times, we just take it for granted that dust comes along with the job, and we don’t bother to try to do anything about it. Can we eliminate all the dust that is generated? Probably not, but we can use approved ventilation plans to eliminate as much as possible.
There are a lot of small things that we can do that will make a big difference. For example, you can clean the dust box according to your dust control plan, replace and clean behind the filters, and purge the system and blow out any dust that may accumulate behind the filter and in the hoses.
There are plenty of things the miner can do to help with dust control as well. Miners can clean the scrubber according to your plan, ensure all water sprays are working, check that all curtains are up and with sufficient ventilation behind them, and keep roadways wet enough to prevent dust generation.
Dust control isn’t only for section personnel. For personnel working out by, the same simple guidelines apply. You should always maintain dampened roadways and belts, and all dust suppression sprays at transfer points should be in working order.
Following the approved ventilation plan will help eliminate as much dust as possible, but it takes everyone doing the right thing to make it work. If the roadways are dry, wet them down. If the bolter is exhausting dust, clean out the system, and replace the filters with new ones. If the miner’s water sprays are stopped up, clean them out. If a curtain gets torn down, stop and put it back up.
We can do a better job when it comes to taking care of generated dust in coal mines. By following the ventilation plan and doing what we know to do every time, we can eliminate the majority of respirable dust.
It will take everyone working together to make a healthier workplace for all.
KEMI does not assume liability for the content of information contained herein. Safety and health remain your responsibility. This information is to be used for informational purposes only and not intended to be exhaustive or a substitute for proper training, supervision or manufacturers’ instructions/recommendations. KEMI, by publication of this information, does not assume liability for damage or injury arising from reliance upon it. Compliance with this information is not a guarantee or warranty that you will be in conformity with any laws or regulations nor does it ensure the absolute safety of any person, place or object, including, but not limited to, you, your occupation, employees, customers or place of business.
