REDUCING RISK IN MINING OPERATIONS
In 2016 OSHA changed its rules concerning silica dust. OSHA’s new rule cuts the permissible exposure limit (PEL) by half.
The new limit is 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air, measured as an 8-hour time-weighted average.
OSHA estimates the new rule could prevent hundreds of deaths and illnesses.
Mining operations create significant amounts of dust and gasses. Many of these dusts are small enough to be breathed.
Even a dust as common as silica can lead to serious health problems. Prolonged exposure can lead to silicosis, a serious disease caused by damage to the lining of the lungs.
Chronic silicosis develops with even low-level exposure over time, reducing lung capacity until sufferers need oxygen to survive.
Ventilation is important in mining. Dangerous gasses, such as methane, could accumulate and increase the risk of explosion.
Gases, such as carbon dioxide, can accumulate, which also posses a risk.
The use of portable dust collectors and blowers keeps the air moving and safeguards the the air quality in mining operations.
Koch Filter manufactures dust collector cartridges for the most common systems. Our engineering capabilities can also produce custom configurations for unique needs.
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